Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework Part A
Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework Part A: Regional Strategic Planning
December 2015 December 2015 Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework Part A: Regional Strategic Planning
December 2015
Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Disclaimer This document has been published by the Department of Planning on behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission. Any representation, statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied in this publication is made in good faith and on the basis that the government, its employees and agents are not liable for any damage or loss whatsoever which may occur as a result of action taken or not taken, as the case may be, in respect of any representation, statement, opinion or advice referred to herein. Professional advice should be obtained before applying the information contained in this document to particular circumstances.
The infrastructure projects identified in the Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework are based on existing unaudited information available from State agencies, utilities and departments. The infrastructure listed is not comprehensive and estimates of infrastructure, timeframes and costs are indicative only. Infrastructure identified is based upon the information available at the time of enquiry, and may be subject to review and change to meet new circumstances. Infrastructure identified in the Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework should not be taken as a commitment by Government to fund these projects. Unless otherwise indicated, public funding of projects is not confirmed.
© Western Australian Planning Commission
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Locked Bag 2506 Perth WA 6001 Published December 2015 website: www.planning.wa.gov.au email: [email protected]
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ii Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Minister’s and Chairperson’s Foreword
Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region is the State’s agricultural heartland. Through innovation and response to new opportunities the Region’s economic base is diversifying, supporting communities that are active and engaged.
The Wheatbelt’s proximity to the metropolitan area, easy access to key transport routes and availability of land suitable for industrial purposes make it an ideal location for the establishment of new industries, including freight and logistics and value adding to traditional agricultural produce.
The liveability of the region is increasingly being recognised with growth of communities in coastal areas and other Wheatbelt shires that adjoin the metropolitan area. This reflects the ability to easily access higher order social and community services in Perth while living in supportive communities surrounded by striking natural and agricultural landscapes.
The dispersed population and settlement pattern in the Wheatbelt and service delivery challenges it presents are recognised. There is a focus on responding to the changing demographics, seeking to attract and retain population and to build on the linkages between towns and settlements.
While the Wheatbelt’s natural environment is known to support its thriving agricultural sector it is also the basis for a growing tourist market. National parks such as Avon Valley, Lesueur, Nambung (Pinnacles) and the Jurien Bay Marine Park are already drawcards for visitors. A rich Aboriginal heritage, pioneer history and internationally recognised biodiversity are key assets that are providing new opportunities to attract visitors to Wheatbelt towns.
The main social, economic and environmental planning issues facing the region are considered in the Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework. The Framework provides a basis for ongoing planning and development that will deliver a diverse and innovative Wheatbelt region that continues to contribute strongly to the State’s prosperity.
I congratulate the Western Australian Planning Commission and the Department of Planning on their collaborative work on this important policy framework that seeks to highlight the strength of and opportunities available in the Wheatbelt region.
John Day MLA Eric Lumsden PSM Minister for Planning Chairperson Western Australian Planning Commission
iii Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Table of contents 1 Introduction 1 1.1 Purpose of this Framework 1 1.2 Framework structure 1 1.3 Framework preparation 3 1.4 Planning context 3 1.5 Other government initiatives 7 1.6 Implementation 7
2 Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework 10 2.1 Wheatbelt vision 10 2.2 Wheatbelt objectives 10 2.3 Planning approaches and initiatives 11 2.4 Regional infrastructure priorities 11
3 Liveable Communities 12 3.1 Objectives 12 3.2 Overview of liveable communities 12 3.3 Population characteristics 12 3.4 Population distribution and settlement 14 3.5 Land supply 14 3.6 Native title 16 3.7 Housing 16 3.8 Human services 17 3.9 Culture and heritage 20 3.10 Planning approach for liveable communities 21
4 Vibrant Economy 22 4.1 Objectives 22 4.2 Overview of Wheatbelt economy 22 4.3 Agriculture 23 4.4 Fisheries and aquaculture 23 4.5 The resources sector 25
iv Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.6 Forestry 27 4.7 Commerce and industry 27 4.8 Tourism 28 4.9 Service industries 29 4.10 Transport network 31 4.11 Physical infrastructure 33 4.12 Planning approach for vibrant economy 36
5 Valued Natural Amenity 37 5.1 Objective 37 5.2 Overview of Wheatbelt environment 37 5.3 Landscape values 39 5.4 Biodiversity 40 5.5 Sustainable use of resources 42 5.6 Planning approach for valued natural amenity 46
List of acronyms and abbreviations 47
References 59
List of maps, figures and tables Map 1 The Wheatbelt region 2 Map 2 Wheatbelt, Great Southern and South West planning regions 6 Map 3 Strategic agricultural infrastructure for the Wheatbelt, Great Southern and South West planning regions 24 Map 4 Mineral resources and significant basic raw materials for the Wheatbelt, Great Southern and South West planning regions 26 Map 5 Wheatbelt framework 30 Map 6 Wheatbelt landscape units 38 Map 7 Regional conservation priorities 41
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Figure 1 State Planning Strategy 2050 structure 4 Figure 2 Interpretation of State planning framework 5 Figure 3 State planning and development framework 8 Figure 4 Population characteristics of the Wheatbelt 2011-2026 (projected) 13
Table 1 Categorisation of policy under State Planning Policy 1 5
vi Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
1 Introduction
The Wheatbelt region as defined by the Planning and The Wheatbelt environment has experienced Development Act 2005 and shown in Map 1, surrounds significant change since colonial settlement Perth to the north and east and covers approximately colonisation. While extensive clearing has supported 155,256 square kilometres. At the 2011 Census the the agricultural sector, it has led to the unintended region’s population count was 74,081 people. The main consequences of salinity and biodiversity loss. The urban centres in the region are Northam, Merredin, combination of exceptional species’ diversity and the Narrogin, York, Moora and Jurien Bay. The larger shire loss of these assets has resulted in part of the region populations are in Dandaragan (3,288), Gingin (5,447), being an internationally recognised biodiversity Toodyay (4,641) and Chittering (5,218). hotspot. This recognition provides an opportunity for the region to be a global leader in natural resource The Wheatbelt, built on its pioneering history and rural management, scientific endeavours. communities, is the agricultural heartland of Western Australia, producing much of the State’s grain supply. The key driver of the region is its people. The Wheatbelt The region is comprised of 43 local governments, with has significant social capital with supportive, engaged more than 100 settlements. As such, the Wheatbelt has and active communities. This will uphold the region a dispersed population and settlement pattern and into the future and provide the impetus for innovation, therefore requires diverse service delivery. diversification and ability to meet future challenges.
The social and economic future of the Wheatbelt has great potential for innovation and value adding, driven 1.1 Purpose of this by: Framework • growth in the region’s resources sector and supporting the sector in the neighbouring regions; The Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure • attraction of new industries due to the region’s Framework is a regional strategic planning document proximity to Perth, and access to industrial land that provides an overview of regional planning issues and transport; and a basis for ongoing planning and development. • potential for additional State strategic alternative energy generation; 1.2 Framework structure • retail and service sector growth, related to population growth and change; The Framework comprises: • residential growth both close to the metropolitan • a vision for the Wheatbelt; area and across the region; • objectives and planning approach for the three • tourism opportunities based on the region’s chapters of − Liveable Communities, Vibrant natural assets; Economy and Valued Natural Amenity; • the National Broadband Network (NBN) enabling • a list of initiatives, being tasks that agencies would technology based businesses; typically progress (Appendix 1A and 1B); • potential for expansion of aviation industries • a list of committed regional infrastructure projects due to minimal air traffic, favourable climatic and (Appendix 2); and geographic conditions; and • a Framework map (Map 5). • potential for invigoration and reinvention of Government assets and infrastructure.
1 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning WheatbeltWheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
RegionalN Planning andLegend Infrastructure Framework 0 20 40 60 80 Wheatbelt Development KIMBERLEY kilometres Commission sub-regions Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, LEONORA PILBARA Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the Avon Planning region boundary Western Australian Planning Commission Copyright © February 2015 GASCOYNE Central Coast Local government boundary MID WEST \\Nts-per\magsprojects\Wheatbelt \WheatbeltPlanningInfrastructureFramework Central East GOLDFIELDS- 2012\Fig1_WheatbeltRegion_A4.mxd ESPERANCE WHEATBELT Base information supplied by Central Midlands PERTH Western Australian Land Information Authority PEEL LI 646-2014-3 SOUTH Wheatbelt South WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Wheatbelt sub-regions supplied by Wheatbelt Development Commission Index to map area
to Meekatharra F F MID WEST approx. 400 km approx. 110 km
to Geraldton
DALWALLINU MOUNT MARSHALL Dalwallinu !! !! Jurien Bay CENTRAL COAST CENTRAL MIDLANDS CENTRAL EAST MOORA
Dandaragan ! Moora WONGAN KOORDA ! BALLIDU DANDARAGAN Koorda Welbungin Wongan Hills !! ! !! Mukinbudin !! WESTONIA VICTORIA YILGARN PLAINS TRAYNING !! Wyalkatchem !! Nungarin to Kalgoorlie Calingiri !! !! !! GINGIN Trayning Southern Cross approx. 100 km Dowerin Westonia !! !! !! F !! Gingin !! Guilderton !! Goomalling Bindoon AVON Merredin Toodyay !! Muchea !! Kellerberrin !! Cunderdin MERREDIN Northam !! !! ! ! Tammin
!! York !! Bruce Rock ! YORK QUAIRADING Perth !! BRUCE ROCK NAREMBEEN ! !! Fremantle !! Quairading PERTH Beverley
Corrigin ! !! Brookton Kondinin KONDININ Mandurah Pingelly CORRIGIN !! ! !! Wandering !! !! KULIN WICKEPIN Kulin Indian Ocean PEEL Cuballing !! !! Wickepin WHEATBELT SOUTH !! Narrogin !! NARROGIN Lake Grace Williams !! LAKE GRACE DUMBLEYUNG WAGIN Bunbury !! !! Dumbleyung ! Collie !! ! Darkan Wagin to Esperance
approx. 220 km Dunsborough WEST F
ARTHUR approx. 165 km
! ! ! F
to Albany GOLDFIELDS- Busselton ESPERANCE
SOUTH WEST GREAT SOUTHERN
Southern Ocean
! Albany
WheatbeltMap 1: The Wheatbelt region region Map 1
2 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
1.3 Framework preparation 1.4 Planning context
The Framework has been prepared with input from The State Planning Strategy is the highest order a Wheatbelt Regional Planning Advisory Committee planning document in Western Australia. As shown in (Advisory Committee). The Committee comprised Figure 1, the Strategy sets out the principles relating representatives from the Department of Planning, to community, environment, economy, infrastructure, Wheatbelt Development Commission, Regional regional development and governance. These are Development Australia – Wheatbelt and local intended to guide how future land use planning and government. The Framework has been adopted by the infrastructure decisions are made. The State Planning Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC). Strategy provides a context for more detailed policies and plans for the State’s ten planning regions. The The Advisory Committee met several times during initiatives outlined in this Framework respond to the 2012 to explore issues affecting the Wheatbelt and Strategic Directions of the State Planning Strategy. identify regional infrastructure and land use planning priorities. State agencies and local governments As shown in Table 1, this Framework, is classified as a provided information to assist the Committee in B2 document (regional strategy) under State Planning capturing a range of views regarding the future of the Policy 1: State Planning Framework Policy. A diagram Wheatbelt. depicting the State planning framework and where the Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure A draft Framework was advertised for public comment Framework is positioned is provided in Figure 2. from May to June 2014 and thirty four submissions were received. The Department of Planning also met with a number of stakeholders including local governments and industry groups. The main issues raised in submissions were: • the relationship of the Wheatbelt Framework with the Wheatbelt Development Commission’s Regional Investment Blueprint; • connections and consistency between surrounding Frameworks, particularly for the Great Southern and South West regions; • protection of mineral resources; • the availability of land and infrastructure necessary for achieving growth; • the provision of aged care accommodation; and • the closure of Tier 3 rail lines and the implications for Wheatbelt settlements.
A range of amendments were subsequently made to the Framework in response to these issues, and a number of planning initiatives will be undertaken by the WAPC and the Department of Planning.
3 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Other planning instruments such as local planning strategies and schemes, and subdivision control are defined and established via legislation, principally the Planning and Development Act 2005.
Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks have been prepared for all regions of the State. The Wheatbelt has a strong relationship and interconnectivity with the Great Southern, and South West regions. This is illustrated in Map 2.
VISION: Sustained Growth and Prosperity Diverse Liveable ConnectedCollaborative
PRINCIPLES Community Infrastructure Economy Regional Development Environment Governance
STRATEGIC GOALS Global Competiveness Strong and Resilient Regions Sustainable Communities Infrastructure Planning Conservation
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 1. Economic development 3. Social infrastructure 1.1 Resource economy 3.1 Spaces and places 1.2 Education, training and knowledge transfer 3.2 A ordable living 1.3 Tourism 3.3 Health and wellbeing 1.4 Agriculture and food 1.5 Remote settlements 4. Environment 1.6 Land availability 2. Physical infrastructure 5. Security 2.1 Movement of people, resources and information 2.2 Water 2.3 Energy 2.4 Waste 2.5 Telecommunications
ACTION PLANNING Implementation Evaluation
Figure 1: State Planning Strategy 2050 structure
4 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Table 1: Categorisation of policy under State Planning Policy 1
Policy Elements of the classification State Planning Example (from SPP1) Framework
B1 State Planning Policies State Planning Policy 2.5 - Land Use Planning in Rural Areas
B2 Regional Strategies Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
Regional and Sub-Regional B3 Structure Plans Northam Surrounds Structure Plan
B4 Strategic Policies Liveable Neighbourhoods
B5 Operational Policies Development Control Policy 3.4 - Subdivision of Rural Land
Figure 2: Interpretation of State Planning Framework
Structure Level Strategic plan Statutory Policy
StateState StateState SStrategictrategic and StateState PlanninPlanningg PlanninPlanningg OOperationalperational SStrategytrategy Policy Policieoliciess
RRegionalegional and Sub-regional Sub-regional RegionRegion Regional Structure Plans RegionalRegional PlanningPlanning Framework SchemeScheme
LoLocalcal Loocalcal StStrucructuturere Local Localocal Locaocall PlanningPlanning PPlanslans Planning PlanningPlanning StrategyStrategy SSchemecheme Policiesolicies
(source: State Planning Policy No 1 – State Planning Framework Policy)
5 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning WheatbeltWheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework RegionalN PlanningLegend and Infrastructure FrameworkSettlement hierarchy 0 20 40 60 80 Marine conservation Suspended freight reserve railway Regional centre !$ KIMBERLEY kilometres Parks and Wildlife Grain freight network managed land ! Sub-regional centre Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, ! LEONORA Agricultural land of State Tier 1 PILBARA Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the and regional significance ! Proposed Western Australian Planning Commission ! sub-regional centre Planning region Copyright © February 2015 Tier 2 GASCOYNE boundary Port n| MID WEST \\Nts-per\magsprojects\State_MultiRegion\ Strategic road corridor Tier 3 RegionalPlanningAndInfrastructureFrameworks\ Existing/proposed GOLDFIELDS- \Region_A4.mxd k strategic industrial ESPERANCE o Priority regional estate Major river aerodrome Base information supplied by PERTH WHEATBELT Western Australian Land Information Authority Aerodrome with Dampier to Bunbury PEEL Both passenger and o natural gas pipeline LI 646-2014-3 freight railway Royal Flying Doctor Service SOUTH Current freight Power station WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Marine Conservation reserve and Parks and railway Aviation training "! (South West Wildlife managed land data supplied by interconnected Index to map area Department of Parks and Wildlife Binningup system) £ desalination plant
to Meekatharra F F approx. 400 km GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE approx. 110 km MID WEST to Geraldton
o Dalwallinu o !! Jurieno Bay Cervantes Moora o!! oBencubbin o Wongan Hills oMukinbudin Lancelin ! Kununoppin ! Dowerin o o o to Kalgoorlie o Southern Cross approx. 100 km
Wyalkatchem F Guilderton !! WHEATBELT o o Cunderdin ! Merredin k Northam o Kellerberrino ! ! k INDIAN OCEAN ! PERTH Bruce Rocko oQuairading n| oBeverley o Narembeen n| k Corrigino Wave Rock o Kondinin o
oKulin PEEL Narrogino !! Lake Graceo o Newdegate £k Bunburyo "! "!k o Wagin o n| !!o "! Dumbleyung !$ to Esperance
Collie "! approx. 220 km Busselton k F !o o GREAT ! o Brooklands o ! SOUTHERN ! Katanning o Margaret oBoyup Brook !! oJerramungup River Kojonup Gnowangerup ! o Nannup ! SOUTH WEST o Manjimup o ! ! o Augusta Bremer Bay Mt Barker k!! SOUTHERN OCEAN o ko !! Denmark !$n|Albany
Wheatbelt,Map 2: Wheatbelt, Great Great SouthernSouthern and andSouth SouthWest planning West regions planning regions Map 4
6 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
1.5 Other government 1.6 Implementation initiatives Implementation of the Wheatbelt Framework will occur This Framework has been informed by, or prepared in several ways: concurrently with, other initiatives such as: • planning elements will be led by the Department • the State Planning Strategy 2050 (2014); of Planning and progressively implemented into WAPC decision-making, and reflected in local • Wheatbelt Strategic Framework (2012) prepared government strategies and schemes; by Wheatbelt Development Commission and Regional Development Australia − Wheatbelt; • economic and social elements will be led by the Wheatbelt Development Commission in • the Regional Centres Development Plan collaboration with local governments and other (SuperTowns initiative) which facilitates growth of organisations; and selected regional towns in the southern half of the State. Northam and Jurien Bay have been selected • infrastructure elements will be implemented by in the Wheatbelt; servicing authorities through normal budgetary processes, in collaboration with the WAPC. • Regional Investment Blueprints including the Wheatbelt Regional Investment Blueprint − The preparation and implementation of economic prepared by Regional Development Commissions; strategies and initiatives for the Wheatbelt is the responsibility of the Wheatbelt Development • Western Australian Regional Freight Transport Commission (WDC). The Wheatbelt Strategic Network Plan to guide the future development Framework (RDAW and WDC, 2012) established the of the freight transport network and respond to following strategic directions for the Wheatbelt: population growth and economic development; • innovative decision-making and resourcing; • Agrifood 2025 and Future Horticulture initiatives of the Department of Agriculture and Food that • recognition of the region’s comparative builds on A Priority Plan for Agriculture and Food advantages; (WA, 2011); and • development that results in social, environmental • The planning and infrastructure frameworks and economic benefit; prepared for the other planning regions of • strong collaboration that adds value to the Western Australia: Pilbara; Kimberley; Mid-West; Wheatbelt’s diversified development; and Gascoyne; Great Southern; South West and Goldfields-Esperance. • targeted strategies to meet unique sub regional context.
The Wheatbelt Development Commission has subsequently prepared an Economic Blueprint for the region. This Framework is consistent with the Blueprint and the two documents are complementary in nature. This inter-relationship is illustrated in Figure 3.
The WAPC proposes a tri-annual audit of the Wheatbelt Framework to monitor progress and potentially reprioritise implementation items.
7 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework 20 31 ) k olicies k ture Plans est amewor eel (Directions W h r example: rt h/P e Fr fo rt - Pe Wheatbelt es amewor - - South - Pe y Fr e olic eel , Landuse Struc tivation and bene ts studies P t ac Planning , Regional Strategies & P ture requirements studies y- ocal Planning Strategies ture projec L - Great Southern - Gold elds-Esperanc - Gascoyne - Bunbur State Planning P Regional Planning Initiativ est a W Regional Planning & Infrastructur Region Schemes ocal Planning Schemes id L ilbar - M - Kimberley - P - regional population growth scenarios studies - regional infrastruc - regional economic and employment strategies - regional social infrastruc und ated Planning inancial or Regions F rm F rce Planning; Te fo rming Strategies: rk ng fo Planning Wo ernment Integr yalties f - Asset Management; - - Lo In State Planning Strategy Ro est cal Gov W k Lo eel Wheatbelt - - South - P t s amewor including:
ntre e Fr Ce y Plan elopmen - Gascoyne Revitalisation - Regional vestment Blueprints - Great Southern - Gold elds-Esperanc - Gascoyne Annual Budget 2 vestment Initiatives rporate Business Plan vestment Blueprint Co Strategic Communit ilbara Cities Regional Dev Regional In - Ord Stage - P est a W Regional In State planning and development framework planning and development State id Regional In ilbar - Kimberley - P - M (source: Western Australian Planning Commission, 2014) Commission, Planning Australian Western (source: Figure 3: Figure
8 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
1.6.1 The Wheatbelt’s comparative advantage In the context of this Wheatbelt Framework, comparative advantage is taken to mean the broad advantages and positive characteristics of the region, especially compared to other parts of the State. These are highlighted in the Wheatbelt Strategic Framework as being its: • culture of resourcefulness and innovation; • proximity to the capital city, Perth; • safe communities with considerable social capital; • clean air and skies and open space; • land availability; • community infrastructure; and • leadership in agricultural production and exports.
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
9 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
2 Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
The Wheatbelt Framework is underpinned by a vision 2.2 Wheatbelt objectives and supported by objectives developed around the three principles of the Wheatbelt Strategic Framework. The objectives also address the Strategic Goals of the Liveable Communities objectives State Planning Strategy for global competitiveness, strong and resilient regions, sustainable communities, Effective infrastructure and service delivery that: infrastructure planning and conservation. • responds to local knowledge and values; • accommodates the Wheatbelt’s linkages to 2.1 Wheatbelt vision other regions; • builds on the interconnectedness of settlements; The Wheatbelt will • assists and promote sustainable growth and have a diverse social and cater for the needs of communities; • recognises the current and changing economic base, be a leader in demographics of the region; and innovation and create new • seek to attract and retain a diverse opportunities that confirm it population. as a key contributor to the State’s prosperity. Vibrant Economy objectives
A diversified and adaptive economy that: • increases its contribution to the Western Australian economy; • benefits from innovation in the primary production sector; and • enables diversification through the establishment and growth of new and innovative industries.
Valued Natural Amenity objective
Environmental and landscape values that support the social, cultural and economic development of the region, and are managed for current and future generations.
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2.3 Planning approaches 2.4 Regional infrastructure and initiatives priorities
Based on the vision and each of the three principles, A list of committed infrastructure priorities is outlined the next three chapters focus on the strategic in Appendix 2. These mainly relate to capital works, or directions required to realise the vision, as well as studies that would lead to capital works. initiatives that may be undertaken by agencies in the future. Initiatives relating to each principle are included In developing this Framework, a range of infrastructure in Appendix 1A and 1B. projects have been identified that could achieve the region’s vision. However, there is competing funding The initiatives in Appendix 1B are studies that would needs across the State, and the identification of typically be undertaken by agencies responsible for projects in this Framework should not be taken as planning, education, health and agriculture. a commitment for Government funding. Individual projects will still be subject to normal budgetary and Treasury processes. The anticipated directions for regional infrastructure are listed in Appendix 3.
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
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3 Liveable Communities
3.1 Objectives 3.2 Overview of Liveable Communities
Liveable Communities objectives The Wheatbelt is a very liveable region. It enjoys a moderate climate, is experiencing growth, has friendly Effective infrastructure and service delivery and connected communities, and is closer to higher that: order services in the Perth metropolitan region than • responds to local knowledge and other country areas. However, with more than 100 values; settlements, as well as farming communities, the region has a dispersed population, which presents challenges • accommodates the Wheatbelt’s linkages for service delivery. to other regions; In the Wheatbelt, there is a strong desire for the • builds on the interconnectedness of planning and coordination of infrastructure to be settlements; integrated with service delivery. The creation of regionally-specific models for the Wheatbelt is a matter • assists and promote sustainable growth of significance to the region. Unlike other regions of and cater for the needs of communities; Western Australia, service delivery to the Wheatbelt • recognises the current and changing occurs through a wide range of geographic operational demographics of the region; and boundaries. This means that social services to the Wheatbelt are not delivered through a regional city • seek to attract and retain a diverse (such as Geraldton to the Mid West and Albany to the population. Great Southern), and instead are delivered via multiple sub-regional centres and/or Perth.
3.3 Population characteristics
At the 2011 Census, the population of the Wheatbelt was 74,081. Population projections to 2026 indicate that the most probable scenario for the growth of the region is to reach 77,590 people by 2026 (WA Tomorrow, 2015). The most optimistic projection is for a population of 83,030 people by 2026.
Compared to State averages, the Wheatbelt population is characterised by a lower percentage of people in the 15-44 age bracket, and a statistically significant representation of people in the 45-65 age group (one in three people Wheatbelt, one in four people statewide), and also in the over 65 age group. This is shown in Figure 4.
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35%
30 30% 29 29 Wheatbelt 2011
Wheatbelt 2026 25 25 25% 24 State average 2011 24 23
State average 2026 21 20%
16 16 15% 14
12 12 12 10 10%
7 7 7 7 7 6 7 6 6 6 6 6 5%
0% 0-4 years 5-9 years 10-14 years 15-24 years 25-44 years 45-64 years 65+ years (source: ABS 2011 Census, WA Tomorrow, 2015)
Figure 4: Population characteristics of the Wheatbelt 2011-2026 (projected)
Projected to 2026, the aging characteristics of the populations are more likely to be disadvantaged Wheatbelt population will become more pronounced against a range of social indicators including education, with nearly one in four people over the age of 65 years life expectancy, incarceration and socio-economic (WA Tomorrow, 2015). Combined with this, the ‘working’ status. This means that the provision of services population (45-64 years) will also decrease, meaning specifically targeted at addressing and improving a relative reduction in workforce numbers. With a quality of life indicators for Aboriginal people should be projected lower than average representation in the 25- a focus for service delivery. 44 years age group, attracting and securing a workforce will become a more prominent issue. The combined issues of aging and vulnerable populations will increase demand for social services, Another significant characteristic of the Wheatbelt and for associated services such as passenger transport, population is its relatively high proportion of Aboriginal leisure and recreation, housing and accommodation residents (five per cent Wheatbelt, compared to State and early intervention programs. This may also present average of two per cent). Statistically, Aboriginal economic opportunities for service-based businesses.
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3.4 Population distribution Population forecasts are that the Avon Arc shires (Northam, York, Toodyay, Chittering Beverley, and and settlement Brookton) and coastal shires (Gingin and Dandaragan) will accommodate 70 per cent of the Wheatbelt’s As mentioned, the population of the Wheatbelt is growth in the next 20 years. Approximately 10 per spread across 43 local governments and more than cent of the region’s growth is anticipated in Cunderdin, 100 settlements and rural hinterland. The main urban Dowerin, Goomalling, Moora, Victoria Plains and centres in the region are Northam (6,584), Merredin Wongan Ballidu. Another 10 per cent is predicted (2,579), Narrogin (4,228), Moora (1,650) and Jurien Bay in the areas around Narrogin, Beverley, Brookton, (1,502). Wandering, Pingelly and Williams. The remainder of the Compared to more remote regions, the Wheatbelt region’s growth is expected in the eastern Wheatbelt, has a dispersed settlement pattern, with many particularly around the Merredin and Kellerberrin areas. communities having reasonable access to Perth for As the projected high growth areas of the Wheatbelt high-order services. As a result the Wheatbelt lacks an have historically experienced limited settlement, they easily definable ‘capital’ like neighbouring regions such do not have the benefit of existing public utility and as the Mid-West (Greater Geraldton, 39,000 people) social infrastructure to build upon. This is especially and the Great Southern (Albany, 35,000 people). This prevalent where extensive lifestyle development is creates a particular challenge for service delivery in the occurring as townsite services may not have kept pace region and a high level of dependency of the resident with out-of-town population growth. population on sub-regional centres.
As a result of the settlement pattern, the planning approach is to identify a network of sub-regional 3.5 Land supply centres to provide a focus for services and facilities. As shown in Map 2, the Wheatbelt’s settlement hierarchy Generally, there is an ample supply of land to cater for is dominated by several sub-regional centres. Unlike growth in the Wheatbelt. However, localised availability other regions that have a ‘Regional City’, no single of land may be constrained due to factors such as settlement in the region could fulfil this role, and cost of services and land assembly and suitability. Perth is the ‘Regional City’ that services the Wheatbelt. Anticipating a high-growth scenario for population, The sub-regional centres are currently the towns of it’s possible the region could require land and housing Narrogin, Northam, Jurien Bay, Moora and Merredin. for an additional 14,000 people by 2026. Averaged out, Planning is in place for Guilderton South and Lancelin this means the region needs to cater for 1,000 new South to cater for significant increased populations of residents each year, which equates to 400 dwellings per 4,800 and 10,000 people respectively. In recognition year. In order to respond to these needs an initiative is of their potential size and the associated need for included in Appendix 1A to develop and implement infrastructure and services, Lancelin and Guilderton are Land Release Plans for growth areas identifying land identified as proposed sub-regional centres. requirements, servicing constraints and associated human service needs. Based on WA Tomorrow projections (WA Tomorrow, 2015) to 2026, approximately half of the region’s local There are approximately 3,000 conditionally approved governments will experience population growth or residential or lifestyle lots in the Wheatbelt region, stabilisation (zero to -0.5% average annual growth rate). which means that projected demand can easily In some areas of the Wheatbelt, population decline be met. In addition to these subdivision approvals, has been occurring since the 1950s, and planning for there are about 3,000 vacant residential lots in the consolidation is an important social issue for the region. major townsites of the region, which confirms an An emerging trend is for local government populations adequate land supply. The majority of created lots are to ‘stabilise’, but for townsite populations to increase. in the centres of Jurien Bay and Northam, with large Anecdotally, this may be linked to primary producers developments also anticipated in Lancelin and south of retiring to townsites, and increased corporatisation of the Moore River near Guilderton. the farming sector.
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In recent years there has been significant lifestyle Industrial land supply has been steady in the development in areas close to Perth, such as Bindoon, Wheatbelt over the last five years and currently there Lower Chittering, Gabbadah, Toodyay, Bakers Hill, is conditional approval for approximately 165 lots. The and Wundowie. It is likely they will be subject to majority of new lots have been created in the Avon continued development activity in coming years. These Industrial Park (Northam), and in the Dalwallinu and areas are of strategic importance and management Merredin townsites. There is a demand for ‘composite’ of expectation, biodiversity, bushfire risk, servicing industrial lots that can service light industries as well as and water availability are prominent considerations. incorporate a housing component, and this is seen as Additional areas under development pressure include an innovative way to attract residents and businesses the coastal region between Guilderton and Lancelin, to the region. It is likely that these types of lots will be and Cervantes through to Jurien Bay. An initiative developed in Gingin and York, and some other towns. is included in Appendix 1A to facilitate long-term strategic planning for the lower Gingin − Indian Ocean The Wheatbelt has approximately 12 million hectares Drive corridor focusing on possible economic and of rural zoned land. Principally used for primary employment opportunities, service provision and the production, this land also has potential for rural preservation of environmental assets. industries and small-scale tourism. Rural zones are generally highly flexible and can support a range of There are continuing opportunities for peri-urban areas land uses, which should be explored and encouraged to establish niche businesses that capitalise on the at a local level. Rural landowners frequently have a landscape and proximity to populations, as a potential need to rationalise their land holdings in response destination for day trips and weekend retreats. In these to land management and environmental issues. This areas there is a need to retain landscape values, as this process requires subdivision approval from the WAPC. is a key attractor for these types of businesses. In order to improve land owners’ understanding of this requirement an initiative is included in Appendix 1A to prepare an information sheet which explains the subdivision process relating to the realignment of property boundaries in rural areas.
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Due to the Wheatbelt’s settlement history and Under the Settlement, native title will be exchanged investment in infrastructure, there is potential for for a negotiated package of benefits, including formal under-utilised or surplus Government land or assets to recognition of the Noongar people as traditional be redeveloped, re-used or reinvigorated. Such land owners, land, investments and the establishment of or assets could provide development prospects for a Noongar Regional Corporations. A major component range of land uses in townsites. It will be important to of the Settlement is the establishment of the Noongar develop flexible planning options for such sites to cater Land Estate through the transfer of a maximum of for a range of possibilities. 320,000 hectares of Crown Land for cultural and economic development, comprising 300,000ha as reserve land and 20,000ha as freehold title. This will 3.6 Native title result in the Noongar people being major landowners in the Wheatbelt, and it is therefore likely that there The Native Title Act 1993 provides for the recognition will be an increase in interaction of Noongar people and protection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander with the land-use planning system. An initiative has people’s native title rights and interests. Certain therefore been included in Appendix 1A to assist government actions, such as grants of freehold or Noongar people to utilise the planning system. other exclusive tenures to other parties, have been found to extinguish native title. Claims for native title Other native title claims outside of the South West cannot be made over areas where native title has been Settlement area have been lodged in the eastern and extinguished; for example, land held in freehold or northern Wheatbelt. exclusive tenure in developed areas. Native title is a relevant consideration when planning 3.7 Housing for urban growth and development in the Wheatbelt, as land in and around towns that may be identified as Housing is usually supplied by private landowners. appropriate for certain development options may be Generally speaking, the Wheatbelt’s housing stock subject to native title claim. Broadly, however, native consists of single residential houses, with occasional title has been extinguished on the majority of land in duplex or unit housing. With the changing age the Wheatbelt by the granting of freehold titles over structure of the Wheatbelt, and a general societal trend large areas. toward one and two person households, the housing variety of the Wheatbelt needs to diversify. Since 2009 the WA Government and South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council have been Similar to other regional areas, there are construction negotiating on the South West Native Title Settlement, and mobilisation costs affecting housing in the a negotiated settlement for six separate native title Wheatbelt. For example, the cost of building to meet claims by the Noongar people of the south west of construction standards for earthquake-prone areas (as Western Australia. These negotiations were completed is the case in the area from Chidlow to Meckering) is in late 2014, with the WA Government’s offer being high relative to the cost of land. This means that the accepted by all Noongar claim groups. The full details region needs to pursue affordable housing options. of the Settlement are recorded in six Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs), which were executed The Department of Housing provides social housing in June 2015. It is anticipated that the Settlement will in the Wheatbelt, including aged accommodation, commence in full around July 2016 after registration of Aboriginal and regional housing. The provision the ILUAs with the National Native Title Tribunal. and style of social housing governed by eligibility requirements and criteria determined by the Department.
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Currently, there is a minimal shortfall of social housing 3.8 Human services (defined as 0-499 lots) in the Wheatbelt region as a whole, and there is a surplus in a couple of the eastern Wheatbelt local governments. The Department of 3.8.1 Health Housing considers the supply of social housing to be The Wheatbelt is serviced by 29 hospitals, 19 modest in the Wheatbelt, except for Northam, and it is community and public health services, four nursing monitoring demand in Merredin and Narrogin posts, four aged care service facilities, three health With projections of one in five residents being aged services centres and two mental health centres. The 65 years and over, a key opportunity for the Wheatbelt major hospitals are located in Narrogin, Merredin, is to provide housing for its aged population, and Northam and Moora. The other hospitals and affiliated potentially housing able to cater for the changing outreach services such as those in the Shire of Corrigin, circumstances of aging populations. The Shire of have an important function in the provision of health Dumbleyung for example has an identified need for services in the Wheatbelt. aged care accommodation with waiting lists for both Health service delivery occurs through all levels of social and aged accommodation. Regional groupings the health sector including public, private, not for of councils such as Roe Regional Organisation of profit, organisations such as RoeRoc and NewRoc and Councils (RoeRoc) and North Eastern Wheatbelt community groups. Many of the health issues facing Regional Organisation of Councils (NewRoc) provide the Wheatbelt will be addressed through the improved aged care accommodation and a number of councils services funded by the Southern Inland Health in the Wheatbelt support the ‘Creating Age-friendly Initiative (SIHI), which includes the Wheatbelt, and Communities in small towns Project’ initiative. also part of the Great Southern and Mid West regions. The Central East Aged Care Alliance, comprising Approximately $565 million has been allocated to NewRoc and Wheatbelt East Regional Organisation of reform and improve access to health care across six key Councils and State and Federal government agency investment streams: representatives, has completed a plan that sets a 1. District Medical Workforce Investment Program − direction for the development and implementation to significantly improve medical resources and 24 of infrastructure and service level solutions to address hour emergency response across the districts. the need for accommodation, service and facilities for older persons living in the Central Eastern Wheatbelt. 2. District Hospital and Health Services Investment The Wheatbelt Integrated Aged Care Solutions (a Program to provide major upgrades at district Wheatbelt-wide plan) was completed in October 2014. hospitals. In the Wheatbelt this involves Northam, Narrogin and Merredin hospitals. Recurrent funding To assist local governments in this area, an initiative is will also be provided under this program to boost included in Appendix 1A to develop model scheme primary health care services across each district. provisions that can be used in Wheatbelt planning 3. Primary Health Care Demonstration Program will schemes to provide a flexible approach for the provide communities with the opportunity to planning and development of aged care sites. assess how health services are delivered in their The Wheatbelt also has a need for accommodation for districts. seasonal or project-related workforces. This presents 4. Telehealth Investment will introduce innovative opportunities for short-term accommodation in ‘e-technology’ and increased use of telehealth townsites. technology across the region, including equipment upgrades.
5. Residential Aged Care and Dementia Investment Program will provide incentive for private providers to expand options for residential aged care and dementia care across the Southern Inland area.
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6. Small Hospital and Nursing Post Refurbishment 3.8.2 Education and training Program will provide a capital works program for small hospitals and nursing posts to be refurbished The Wheatbelt has 75 government schools that or, if required, rebuilt to enable delivery of health service 10,000 students across the region. There are 44 care services that will match the needs of their primary schools, 24 district high schools, four senior communities. high schools, one kindergarten to Year 12 college, two WA College of Agriculture campuses (Narrogin and While SIHI will offer improved services to a large part Cunderdin), one Education Support Centre and nine of the Wheatbelt, existing and projected growth in school networks. The Wheatbelt also has four private the shires of Chittering, Gingin and Dandaragan is primary schools, one high school and one senior high expected to create demands for health infrastructure school with an agricultural focus. At a tertiary level, the which is not within current SIHI funding. Servicing of region is home to the University of Western Australia’s these areas must be considered through sub-regional farm and the University of Notre Dame’s rural clinical planning. school of medicine.
In any given year it is estimated that one in five The provision of new primary school sites is generally people aged 18-65 years will experience a mental determined by dwellings and population, with a health illness. Mental health is an important social primary school usually provided for every 1,800 issue, and one that can have dramatic impacts on dwellings. Following that, one high school is usually rural communities, especially men. The Regional required to service four to five primary schools. Men’s Health Initiative was established to address the particular issues affecting men in the Wheatbelt, and For children aged 0-5 years, statistics show 16.6 also services the region. Established under Royalties per cent of children living in the Wheatbelt are for Regions the initiative is aimed at improving the developmentally vulnerable compared to the national health and wellbeing of men in rural Western Australia. average of 13.7 per cent. To improve this, more targeted Both these services are based in Northam, and have educational opportunities for vulnerable communities a network of staff across the Wheatbelt that provide are required, particularly in early childhood. Similar to support and assistance. Mental health services provide other areas of the State, families with children will often psychiatry services for paediatric, adolescent, adult relocate from the region when their children require and elderly patients, and should be expanded to meet secondary schooling. For the remaining children of increasing demand. school age, educational achievement and participation is below State average. With nearly one in four people in the Wheatbelt projected to be aged over 65 years by 2026 (WA The need to provide education and training Tomorrow, 2015), the provision of aged care – both in opportunities locally in order to increase participation terms of health and low to high care accommodation, and retention rates has been partially addressed by the will be a very significant issue for the region. The expansion of courses at CY O’Connor Institute and the impacts of an aging population is a major issue for sharing of new trade training facilities at the Merredin Australia as a whole. Senior High School campus. Student accommodation is available to assist rural students who wish to In some ways, the historical level of servicing in the continue their education or training in the region, Wheatbelt gives the region an advantage in terms of with facilities in Merredin, Narrogin, Moora, Northam, serviced and potentially under-utilised public buildings Cunderdin and Bindoon. The demand for residential that could be used to support the needs of an aging student accommodation has been established and population. opportunities to expand this model could be explored. From 2015, Year 7 education will be provided at high While these services are currently predominantly schools; whilst this is likely to increase the demand provided by the public sector, there are opportunities for residential student accommodation it will also for greater private and non-government sector increase education costs to parents and could lead to involvement in for example, geriatric health care, more people relocating from the region. It is important specialised housing and home based services, therefore to maintain local education options. hospitality and leisure and wellness programs.
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Further expansion of training is being considered 3.8.4 Sport and recreation with funding applications progressing for a new CY O’Connor Institute campus at Narrogin and a Sport and recreation activities play a critical role in specialised renewable energies and mining industries the lifestyles of people living in regional Western skills centre at Merredin. Some of these vocational Australia. The coordinated delivery of sport and training institutions have links to similar facilities recreation Infrastructure is important in ensuring that outside the region, including Perth and Geraldton. opportunities for these activities meet the needs of Similarly, some institutions outside the Wheatbelt, local and regional communities. Beyond formal sports provide training to communities within the region. facilities, there is a need to encourage active living more generally, linked to townsite design and layout. Based on population projections, the Wheatbelt’s coastal settlements will require education facilities in Provision of sport and recreation infrastructure future. There is no senior high school in the coastal across the Wheatbelt is driven by local government. area, with the settlements of Gingin and Jurien Bay Construction of this infrastructure is supported through offering high school to Year 10 only. There is a primary State and Commonwealth grants. Since 2010/11, more school in Lancelin, but no education services to cater than $13.5 million of State funds have been allocated for Gabbadah and Guilderton. As the coastal Wheatbelt across 51 separate recreation facilities. grows, there may be a need for primary schools at Recent funding opportunities have led to the Guilderton (south of the Moore River), Gabbadah (to construction of many new recreation centres, however service the rural residential estates), an additional funding is restricted to capital works and does not primary school at Lancelin, and possibly a senior high provide ongoing lifecycle costs associated with the school at Jurien Bay or Lancelin. infrastructure. This is likely to be an ongoing issue for Connection to a national broadband network local governments with low rate bases. creates greater potential for e-learning in the region’s education facilities. This could change the way 3.8.5 Culture and the arts education is delivered in the Wheatbelt, and may in turn influence settlement decisions when secondary Wheatbelt communities are supported by a network of schooling is required. culture and arts based community groups. The region reflects its history and culture through a diverse range of museums, festivals and other activities. More than 3.8.3 Childcare 25 museums and galleries present a range of historical Similar to other country areas, the provision of and cultural topics including visual arts and sculpture, childcare services allows parents to participate in the wildflowers, toy soldiers, war and pioneering heritage. workforce. This is a specific issue in the Wheatbelt, Some of the groups operating in the region include where there is a documented labour shortage, and Country Arts WA, Country Arts Network of WA which projected demographic changes predicting ongoing supports indigenous and non-indigenous cultural issues in attracting and retaining a suitably qualified activities, Country Women’s Association, and numerous workforce. localised groups.
In terms of service delivery, the Wheatbelt’s A range of purpose built and multi-purpose dispersed settlement pattern means that provision infrastructure is established throughout the Wheatbelt of economically viable services is challenging. to support cultural activities. This infrastructure is Opportunities may exist for collective solutions to generally owned and operated by local government. deliver services based on local community needs. This Examples include The Moora Performing Arts Centre, may involve collaboration between small businesses the Cummins Theatre in Merredin, the Link Theatre who are the region’s major employers, and local in Northam, the Platform Theatre in Beverley and the government. York Sport and Recreation Centre. In addition, current initiatives include the restoration of the Narrogin Town Hall and the establishment of the Jurien Bay Visitor and Civic Precinct.
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Acknowledging the key role of culture and the arts The Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 provides for the in supporting vibrant and liveable communities, a identification and protection of Aboriginal sites consolidated understanding of culture and the arts throughout Western Australia. There are approximately services across the Wheatbelt is required. This will 800 registered sites in the Wheatbelt region, particularly support planning and investment in these activities, in areas that have been disturbed through urban or services and facilities. agricultural activity. It is estimated that there is a similar number of sites in more remote or less travelled areas. 3.9 Culture and heritage 3.9.2 Built heritage 3.9.1 Aboriginal heritage and culture In the Wheatbelt, there are approximately 160 places listed on the State heritage register, reflective to the Aboriginal people have lived in the region for more Wheatbelt’s role in Australia’s pioneering history. than 45,000 years. It is recognised that the Noongar The towns of Toodyay and York are recognised by people are the traditional owners of the south-west of the National Trust as ‘historic towns’ and statutory Western Australia, which covers most of the Wheatbelt provisions are in place to protect their heritage values. region. Noongar law and culture is intrinsically linked These towns and the settlement at New Norcia are to land. Distinct Noongar tribal groups have continuing important day-trip visitor destinations. connection to different lands in the region. Indigenous heritage and culture is an important element for the There is potential to build on the tourist potential of Wheatbelt’s regional identity. the region’s rich pioneering heritage through townsite revitalisation projects and development of specialist tours.
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3.10 Planning approach for 5) Remove impediments to residential, commercial Liveable Communities and industrial land supply where they exist; 6) Plan future options and aspirations with In its decision-making, the Western Australian Planning communities that are experiencing long-term Commission will aim to: population decline; 1) Focus growth in and around established 7) Progress opportunities to recycle or re-use under- centres that provide a high level of amenity and utilised facilities and infrastructure; and employment opportunities by: 8) Enhance the region’s sense of place by protecting, • facilitating growth in the sub-regional centres managing and sharing its heritage and culture; and of Northam, Narrogin, Merredin, Moora, Jurien 9) Plan in recognition of the strong social capital and Bay and the proposed sub-regional centres of sense of community. Lancelin and Guilderton; • supporting facilities and services in other communities that provide linkages to enable growth and connections to sub-regional centres and towns that serve a broader catchment; • supporting provision of health and education services to support the needs of the population; • making specific provision for aged and vulnerable people; • providing access to transport, including road, rail, bus and aviation; • supporting the role of cycling and walking in providing for the movement of people; • ensuring that rural living precincts are planned and appropriately serviced; and • encouraging the location of major recreational and cultural facilities, employment and community services in well-planned and accessible settlements; 2) Enhance amenity by protecting, managing and sharing valued natural assets; 3) Plan, adapt and respond to potential natural hazards such as bushfire, floods and sea level rise; 4) In areas where essential services aren’t available, pursue fit-for-purpose delivery of these services;
21 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4 Vibrant Economy
4.1 Objectives 4.2 Overview of the Wheatbelt economy
Vibrant Economy objectives The Wheatbelt region is the major contributor to the State’s agricultural economy. Agriculture includes A diversified and adaptive economy that: grain and livestock production, and horticulture. • increases its contribution to the The Wheatbelt contributes a third of the State’s Western Australian economy; agricultural production value. In terms of the value of product, mining contributes a third of the Wheatbelt’s • benefits from innovation in the primary production value, through iron ore in the east and production sector; and mineral sands in the west. Other economic drivers in the region include construction, retail, manufacturing, • enables diversification through the tourism and fishing. establishment and growth of new and innovative industries. The Wheatbelt economy has benefited from its close proximity to Perth and in some cases, to regional areas where the mining sector is growing. There are further opportunities to attract investment and employment to support activities in adjoining regions, thereby further diversifying the Wheatbelt’s economic base.
Opportunities include the expansion of irrigated horticulture and value adding of horticultural product for sale in the metropolitan market and for export; attracting industry to the Wheatbelt where relatively inexpensive industrial land is available in locations with good transport linkages; offering tourist accommodation and attractions in close proximity to Perth; and providing residential and rural living land to support population growth and boost the retail, building and construction and service sectors.
As part of its responsibility to prepare Regional Investment Blueprints, the Wheatbelt Development Commission is preparing sub-regional economic strategies. Four of the proposed five sub-regional strategies are now complete (Avon, Central Coast, Central Midlands and Wheatbelt South) with Central East likely to be completed by the middle of 2015. These strategies identify a range of actions to expand and support economic activity relevant to each sub- region.
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
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4.3 Agriculture and proximity to markets. They may also be suitable for establishing new industries focused on the Agriculture is the predominant economic activity downstream processing of agricultural products. in the Wheatbelt region in terms of land use and employment. The Wheatbelt also contributes a third of Similar opportunities may be available elsewhere in the State’s agricultural value. Wheat, barley and canola the Wheatbelt, particularly in the south sub-region, are the main crops produced. The sale of livestock but the availability of water resources requires further (particularly sheep and lambs) and wool also make investigation. a notable contribution to the sector. There is also a significant presence of intensive livestock industries including piggeries, and poultry farms and associated 4.4 Fisheries and infrastructure including saleyards and abattoirs. Map 3 aquaculture shows some of the key agricultural assets in the region. Nationally, WA’s rock lobster fishery represents 20 Agriculture will remain a significant part of the per cent of the value of the nation’s fisheries. In the Wheatbelt’s economy and employment profile. There Wheatbelt the rock lobster industry dominates the is potential to grow and strengthen the agricultural region’s fishing (99 per cent of the value) and accounts sector through continuing diversification into new for 21 per cent of Western Australia’s total lobster catch. crops and products. These could satisfy increasing The region’s total value of the live weight catch in 2008- demand, particularly in export markets, for high quality 09 was estimated at $58 million, with prices ranging food products. It is therefore important that high between $30-40 a kilogram. In 2014, prices were quality agricultural land is protected from competing reported in the order of $50-60 a kilogram, indicating a uses such as urban and rural residential development. resurgence in the fishery. (Department of Fisheries, 2014) This is reflected in the WAPC’s State Planning Policy 2.5: Land Use Planning in Rural Areas. It is also important that The Wheatbelt aquaculture industry primarily consists infrastructure is available to support the establishment of finfish and yabbies. While aquaculture currently of these industries including for the provision of power, represents only a small contribution to the regional water and telecommunications. economy, potential also exists for its expansion; for example, cultivation of abalone and farming of beta- In those parts of the Wheatbelt which are more carotene. susceptible to the impacts of climate variability and change, alternative crops may present new opportunities. These may include drought-resistant varieties of traditional crops and activities that can benefit from the Commonwealth Government’s Carbon Farming Initiative. With a trend towards a drying climate and increasing rainfall variability, there is potential for this to impact on land use patterns.
4.3.1 Horticulture There are many horticultural operations in the Wheatbelt which produce more than half of the State’s olives, oranges, limes and lettuce.
Areas with additional potential for horticulture have been identified in the shires of Gingin, Chittering, Dandaragan and Moora. These areas have suitable climates including relatively high rainfall, available ground water (although quality and quantity varies)
23 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning WheatbeltWheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework RegionalN PlanningLegend and Infrastructure FrameworkSettlement hierarchy 0 20 40 60 80 Marine conservation Both passenger and reserve freight railway Regional centre kilometres Current freight !$ KIMBERLEY Parks and Wildlife managed land railway Sub-regional centre Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, !! LEONORA Department of Planning WA,on behalf of the Agricultural land of State Suspended freight PILBARA Western Australian Planning Commission and regional significance railway Proposed ! sub-regional centre Copyright © February 2015 ! Approximate grain belt GASCOYNE Grain freight network Port \\Nts-per\magsprojects\Wheatbelt\Wheatbelt n| MID WEST RegionalPlanningAndInfrastructureFramework\ )" Rain isohyets Tier 1 A \Fig8_StrategicAgriculturalInfrastructure.mxd )" Abattoir GOLDFIELDS- A ESPERANCE Planning region Base information supplied by Tier 2 boundary )"S Saleyard PERTH WHEATBELT Western Australian Land Information Authority PEEL LI 646-2014-3 Strategic road corridor Tier 3 Sheep numbers 2011 SOUTH (1 dot = 10,000) Marine Conservation reserve and Parks and WEST GREAT SOUTHERN Wildlife managed land data supplied by Major river Department of Parks and Wildlife Index to map area 300 mm Rainfall Isohyets, Grain Belt, Sheep numbers, F Disclaimer: All infrastructure, data counts and saleyards and Abattoirs data supplied by other facilities shown on this map are indicative Department of Agriculture and Food only and should not be considered either geographically accurate or as formally endorsed to Meekatharra approx. 400 km by any government agency.
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StrategicMap 3: Strategic agricultural agricultural infrastructure infrastructure for the Wheatbelt, Great Southern and Map 8 South West planning regions
24 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.5 The resources sector To understand the relationship mining has with planning, it is important to understand how the Mining Act 1978 operates. Mining applications are processed 4.5.1 Mining, petroleum and under the Mining Act and therefore planning approvals geothermal energy for mining are not required from the WAPC or local government. Section 120 of the Mining Act requires Mining is an increasingly important industry in the that any mining proposals shall take into account the Wheatbelt. Mining contributes approximately 24 provisions of any planning scheme In force under the per cent to the Gross Value of Wheatbelt production Planning and Development Act 2005, but a scheme although the sector employs 4.4 per cent of the cannot act to prohibit or affect the granting of a region’s workforce (Regional Development and Lands, mining tenement. Should a mining tenement be in 2011). The major commodity produced is iron ore (in conflict with an operational Scheme, both the Ministers the Shire of Yilgarn) with gypsum, heavy mineral sands, for Planning and Mines are to be advised. silica sand, nickel, copper, salt, gold and silver also mined in the region. The value of minerals and natural Notwithstanding the significant contribution mining gas in the region in 2013 was worth more than $2.6 makes to the Wheatbelt’s economy, it is important to billion (Department of Mines and Petroleum, 2013). This provide an avenue for local governments’ concerns to does not include the extraction of basic raw materials, be assessed and addressed when proposals are being such as sand, limestone, gravel, rock aggregate on considered by the Department of Mines and Petroleum private land. Map 4 shows the significant mineral and through the s120 process. It is also important to geological resources for the Wheatbelt, Great Southern ensure that any mining operations once approved are and South West regions. managed to minimise impacts on the environment, significant landscapes and local amenity. The mineral prospectivity of the Wheatbelt could provide growth of the mining sector in the longer- The WAPC position on the extraction of mineral term. This could include mining of bauxite–alumina resources is to: resources in the western part of the Wheatbelt and • Support mining in the Wheatbelt, acknowledging kaolin resources in the Meckering and Narrogin areas its significant and important contribution to the and potash and phosphate resources in the Shire region’s economy and the energy security of the of Dandaragan. Mineral processing in the region State; includes synthetic rutile from ilmenite at the Chandala Processing Plant. • ensure that where the mining occurs its impacts are carefully managed and the land is restored Parts of the Wheatbelt within the Perth Basin are also appropriately; thought to have a high prospectivity for conventional • restrict incompatible land uses or consider gas and tight gas production. As the gases are found sequential uses in identified mineral resource areas at great depth with significant vertical separation from so as not to jeopardise future mining proposals; non-saline shallow aquifers, environmental and health and impacts generally associated with their extraction are considered manageable. • acknowledge and support the local government’s opportunity to form a position on the planning Recent gas finds at Gingin West 1 and Red Gully 1 implications of mining in their local area gas wells are expected to generate further interest through the local planning strategy and scheme. in that area of the Perth Basin. The Red Gully Gas and Matters to consider may include those related Processing facility near Gingin was commissioned in to environmental, impacts on amenity, land 2013. The commissioning of this plant has the potential use conflict, loss of productive agricultural land, to increase the viability of other gas finds in the region. landscape protection and heritage and cultural Some exploration for tight gas has occurred in the significance. Wheatbelt (Warro well near Badgingarra, Shire of Dandaragan) and further opportunities for tight gas exploration and production are being evaluated.
25 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning
7 7 Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Frameworks Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework To Mt.Magnet approx. 220 km Mines and resources To Geraldton N approx. 110 km 7 0 20 40 60 80 Blue - mines operating Pink - mines proposed kilometres and under development Grey - undeveloped mineral deposits, prospects, Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, occurrences and Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the exploration targets Western Australian Planning Commission Copyright © February 2015 Resources symbols !< Jurien Bay Dalwallinu \\Nts-per\magsprojects\ Alunite ! StateMultiRegion\Regional !
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Department of Mines and Petroleum &( Copper - lead - zinc PITHARA approx. 100 km Dowerin Southern Cross 7 $$ 7 Diatomite Wyalkatchem , Dimension stone Guilderton !! HIGHWAY Dolomite Legend 㣠Merredin NORTHAM ! # Fluorite Cunderdin ! Marine conservation GREAT EASTERN reserve !U Gem and semi - k Northam precious stones ! k Basic Raw Materials ! Kellerberrin (significant geological !P= Gold supplies) ")G Graphite WHEATBELT Planning region ¢ Greensand - gluconite boundary ¢ Quairading Bruce Rock " Gypsum PERTH Strategic road corridor ¿ n| &% Heavy mineral sands Narembeen Beverley Major river !@ Industrial pegmatite n| BROOKTON minerals k Corrigin Both passenger and ")# Iron ore freight railway HIGHWAY ")K Kaolin clay Wave Rock Current freight INDIAN OCEAN Kondinin railway ")L Limestone - limesand Suspended freight ") M Magnesite G railway R Kulin E A !(N Nickel T Grain freight network PEEL R Other Narrogin Tier 1 !\ Peat _^ Petroleum ! ! S O Tier 2 ") U Newdegate P Phosphate T H ALBANY E ' R D Pigments N Lake Grace Tier 3 k &-▬ Potash n| k Settlement hierarchy é! Pyrite - sulfur Bunbury ! Wagin Dumbleyung !$ Collie! ;<: Rare earths Regional centre ")D !$ Salt Busselton k A! Silver Sub-regional centre Katanning ! ! To Esperance ! !(S Silica - silica sand ! ! approx. 120 km SOUTH 7 ! H 7 Proposed Brooklands I ! Æ G Talc VASSE Kojonup Y ! sub-regional centre H HWA Boyup Brook ! W HIG A GREAT SOUTHERN Jerramungup V# Tin - tantalum - lithium ! Y n| Port WESTERN Gnowangerup H E Tungsten - molybdenum ! IG ! Nannup H W Existing/proposed Margaret River A !¶( Uranium SOUTH Y k strategic industrial estate ")V Vanadium - titanium WEST T KIMBERLEY S Manjimup A § Vermiculite ! O ! C Bremer MUIR Bay PILBARA Augusta HIGHWAY
GASCOYNE HIGHWAY HIGHWAY MID WEST ! GOLDFIELDS- ! H T ESPERANCE k Mt Barker U O S PERTH WHEATBELT PEEL Denmark SOUTHERN OCEAN SOUTH COAST k WEST SOUTH !! HIGHWAY Albany GREAT SOUTHERN !$ n| Index to map area
Mineral resources and significant basic raw materials for the South West, GreatMap Southern 4: Mineral and resources Wheatbelt and significant planning strategiesbasic raw levelmaterials detail for the Wheatbelt, Great Southern and South West planning regionsMap 9
26 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.5.2 Geoheritage 4.7 Commerce and industry
There are ten Geoheritage sites within the Wheatbelt The Wheatbelt region has the advantage of available region. These sites contain geological features industrial land close to the metropolitan area and with considered to have significant scientific and good transport links to markets and ports. Serviced educational value. Geoheritage sites are managed industrial land is available within the Avon Industrial by the Department of Mines and Petroleum and it Park near Northam and the establishment of a large is expected that they will be protected from other Employment Node at Muchea in the Shire of Chittering activities by State and local governments. is being progressed. The availability of serviced industrial land is an important regional asset that can provide opportunities in the short and long-term for 4.6 Forestry the establishment of new industries in, and relocation of existing industries, to the Wheatbelt. There has been an increase in farm forestry in the Wheatbelt. The forestry industry in the Wheatbelt There are opportunities to establish industries and region has made significant investments in the services that support the growing resources sector in farm forestry sector, particularly in oil mallee and the Wheatbelt as well as in other regions such as the sandalwood, carbon farming initiatives, carbon Mid-West and Goldfields Esperance. Areas with good sequestration and renewable energy, all of which access to major east-west/north-south multi-modal are important economic, social and environmental transport routes have the ability to capture supply priorities for the State. chain benefits of the growing Western Australian mining sector. These opportunities would be assisted The forestry sector is expected to experience a period through upgrading of transport infrastructure, of consolidation following the rapid growth associated particularly the road network, to ensure that it is with managed investment schemes. There has been capable of servicing the growing transportation a drop in the establishment of new plantations and demands. only a limited number of new plantings in areas of lower rainfall for carbon sequestration are anticipated. The coastal shires of Dandaragan and Gingin The outlook for the sector will amongst other things, and shires close to the metropolitan area such be influenced by climate variability, affecting where as Chittering, Toodyay, Northam and York are products can be profitably produced. experiencing population growth. Relocation to these areas is generally for lifestyle or financial reasons. Given the proximity to Perth and availability of telecommunications infrastructure and services the establishment of ‘footloose’, knowledge-based and home-based businesses by those still in the workforce is expected to support the Wheatbelt’s economic growth.
27 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.8 Tourism in August of every year. Other popular events include the Lancelin Ocean Classic, Wagin Woolarama, Dowerin The tourism sector is currently a small but important and Newdegate Field Days, the Kulin Bush Races, and and growing part of the Wheatbelt economy. The the Brookton Old Time Motorshow. sector contributes approximately 3.3 per cent of Given the region’s proximity to the Perth market, there the Gross Value of Regional Production (Regional are opportunities for growth of the international and Development and Lands, 2011). While this figure is inter-State day trip market (from Perth). Food and wine, lower than the state average of 4.2 per cent, it has a history, adventure, nature and event-based activities high employment multiplier. and a diverse range of natural tourism attractions such The Wheatbelt is the second most visited region in as the Jurien Bay Marine Park and Lesueur National Park Western Australia for day-trips. Two of the most visited will provide a platform for the further development of day-trip destinations, the Pinnacles and Wave Rock, this market. are located in the shires of Dandaragan and Kondinin Increased visitation based on these attractions and respectively. Other visitor attractions include the events is expected to continue. As a result recreational Avon Valley and Chittering Valley Wine Region and and marine infrastructure, such as the community use the Spanish monastery settlement of New Norcia. boat jetty at Lancelin and the Jurien Bay Marina, will be The construction of Indian Ocean Drive in 2011 has more heavily utilised. Coastal areas are under pressure reduced travelling times to the Pinnacles and to coastal from recreational users, particularly from weekend, settlements, beaches and nature reserves. holiday or day-trippers from the metropolitan area One of the main tourism events in the Wheatbelt is and provision of infrastructure to support additional the Avon Descent, an annual international, two-day, recreational pursuits will be required. white water event involving both paddle craft (kayaks, surf skis) and small motor boats. It runs from Northam to Perth, along the Avon and Swan Rivers, and is held
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
28 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
To boost tourism’s contribution to the Wheatbelt for Wedge and Grey in consultation with other economy, the development of an overnight tourism agencies, and in keeping with this decision, both (rather than a day-trip) market is essential. This requires sites are shown on Map 5 as proposed tourism and focused investment in accommodation, attractions recreation nodes. and product development to respond to the unique characteristics of the numerous sub-regions within the Wheatbelt. There are opportunities to develop iconic 4.9 Service industries walks and cycle trails scope to promote special sector operations such as aquaculture and agri-tourism, and While the agricultural sector remains the largest Aboriginal tourism experiences. employer in the Wheatbelt, employment by the service sector is increasing. Approximately 20 per cent of the The establishment of new tourist accommodation, Wheatbelt workforce is employed in this sector, with attractions and recreational opportunities and better eight per cent in education and training, seven per marketing of existing facilities will make a contribution cent in health care and social assistance and six per to ensuring the sustainability of some Wheatbelt cent in public administration and safety (ABS, 2011) The communities and diversifying the economic base of relatively high percentage of employment by the State the region. and Commonwealth Government’s in the Wheatbelt (11.5 per cent) is also a reflection of the importance of Some tourist and recreational activities take place near the service sector. Wedge and Grey Islands, located between Lancelin and Cervantes. Historically pastoralists and their families As mentioned, there are significant opportunities to holidaying at the coast established a limited number expand the service sector in the Wheatbelt, based of shacks. These informal nodes have grown with on the need to provide services to a growing aged approximately 450 shacks at Wedge and Grey and population and potential for innovative delivery of improved access from Indian Ocean Drive providing for education and training programs. increased day-use.
In 2011, the Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Environment and Public Affairs produced Report 21 - Shack Sites in Western Australia. Recommendation 6 of this report recommended removal of squatter shacks and the area’s development to provide the public with low-impact, nature-based, affordable visitor facilities and accommodation, including camping and caravanning facilities.
In considering the report, Government accepted the recommendation with the qualification that “The State Government will examine options for Wedge and Grey that meet the requirements for public recreation and tourism use in conjunction with a level of shack retention that contributes to the opportunities for public use. This consideration would be in consultation with current shack leaseholders. Any future development of the sites will be subject to State planning requirements and will address equity of access and use, building safety, health and amenity, coastal processes and provide for environmentally sustainable public outcomes.” The Department of Parks and Wildlife is examining options
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
29 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt *# *# Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
to Geraldton F N approx.F 110 km 0 10 20 30 40 KIMBERLEY kilometres to Meekatharra MID WEST approx. 400 km PILBARA Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission GASCOYNE Y Copyright © February 2015 Potential horticultural WA GH MID WEST growth area HI \\Nts-per\magsprojects\Wheatbelt\ B Lake R GOLDFIELDS- WheatbeltPlanningInfrastructureFramework2012\ A Moore N *# *# ESPERANCE Fig7_WheatbeltFrameworkMap_A3.mxd D WHEATBELT o PERTH Base information supplied by the # PEEL Western Australian Land Information Authority, o * SOUTH LI 646-2014-3 ! Dalwallinu GREAT SOUTHERN Hill *# WEST Jurien Bay !"u Water courses supplied by ! R *# Index to map area Department of Water ! iv *# er NORTHERN *# *# Managed lands and water supplied by o $ *# Department of Parks and Wildlife Cervantes ! _^ ! Mines and Resource data supplied by Nambung NP *# Department of Minerals and Petroleum 2012 ! $ Moora _^ $ Dandaragan o!!*# H ! WHEATBELT Grey IG Legend H *# W *# Lake A o Standard gauge railway Y *# ! *# Deborah Vegetation and wetlands _^ o Koorda West ! Mukinbudin Narrow gauge railway Wedge T ! Wongan Hills o A !*# Island E Marine park R *# Moore G Grain freight network River Lancelin ! $ Wallambin Lake *# Conservation estate Tier 1 ! *# *# *# o Tier 2 o Remnant vegetation Dowerin *#o! F )"L *#! *# Southern to Kalgoorlie $o Cross approx. 100 km Tier 3 Wyalkatchem *#! Settlements Goomalling !*# HIGHWAY o *# $ Administration Guilderton ! ! ! Gingin ! *# !! Sub-regional centre Local government Bindoon *# $ $ boundary Merredin"u Proposed sub-regional N $ o Marvel Loch ! GOLDFIELDS- ! Planning region TER *#! ! $ Toodyay EAS ! centre boundary $ ! o Northam $ ESPERANCE ! G $ Indian k "u REAT o Tammin o *# Industry *# ! !*#$ Existing/proposed Mines and resources Muchea *#!$ k *#!$ !*# ! *# k strategic industrial Blue - mines operating ! Cunderdin Kellerberrin estate ! Pink - mines proposed $! Bakers Hill *# Tourism and under development Wundowie GRE Bruce Rock State strategic Grey - undeveloped Ocean AT York ! o !*# _^ tourism site mineral deposits, prospects, occurrences and *# *# exploration targets ! o ^ Proposed tourism & PERTH *#! _ recreation node Resources symbols Quairading Narembeen xn ! !# Beverley !* *# !< Alunite &% Heavy mineral sands o! o Health Fremantle Canning $ Proposed strategic * Andalusite - kyanite - !@ Industrial pegmatite n *# "u ` sillimanite minerals x Avon *# health centre # FG Asbestos ") Iron ore River A Infrastructure S Corrigin
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project alignment Talc R H N I Williams G o Graphite # H *#! o*# *# Gas pipeline ")G V Tin - tantalum - lithium W A Y Lake Grace Strategic transport ¢ Greensand - gluconite E Tungsten - molybdenum *# River *# corridor " Gypsum ¿ !¶( Uranium SOUTH WEST Dumbleyung Bunbury o*# o Highway n ! $! *#! )"L Gas well ")V Vanadium - titanium x Wagin ! Dumbleyung # Main road * Disclaimer: Collie Collie Lake
Arthur approx. 165km All infrastructure, mine sites, service CBH* - Co-operative Bulk Handling River Lake corridors and other facilities shown on to Albany Magenta this map are indicative only and should H
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W accurate or as formally endorsed by any F ! A Y government agency. Busselton o *# # *# Map 5: Wheatbelt frameworkMap 7 Wheatbelt framework map * *# *# *# *# *# 30 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.10 Transport network implications arising from the closure, particularly on the amenity of townsites that may need to accommodate the movement of heavy vehicles due to Tier 3 closures. 4.10.1 Road and rail The planning implications of this new freight task on The Wheatbelt has a high level of access to the Wheatbelt roads needs to be investigated further and National and State transport networks and therefore an initiative is included in Appendix 1A to identify the to ports, strategic industrial areas and mining regions planning responses that may be needed. throughout Western Australia. National and State roads The diversification of the Wheatbelt economy will and highways that pass through the region include the continue to benefit from existing inter-State and intra- Great Northern Highway, Great Eastern Highway, Great State road and rail linkages. These linkages provide Southern Highway, Brand Highway, Indian Ocean Drive opportunities for the establishment of new business and Albany Highway. within identified industrial estates focused on servicing Rail freight is a significant feature of the Wheatbelt the resource sector. region. A standard gauge line links the Eastern States Along the region’s main freight routes, there is strong to Fremantle Port’s Kwinana Bulk Terminal and the demand for land and services associated with freight, Grain Freight Network of Tier 1, 2 and 3 narrow gauge logistics and mining support. This is particularly the lines that provide access for many of the grain growing case along the Great Northern Highway close to Perth, areas in the Wheatbelt to ports in Kwinana, Albany as road trains look to disassemble at Wubin, which is and Geraldton. The Co-operative Bulk Handling Group the first point at which triple road trains can be used (CBH) owns and manages the grain storage network further north. The Avon Industrial Park on the Great and infrastructure, and Brookfield Rail leases and Eastern Highway is also hosting industries that provide operates the rail network from the Government. Rolling support to the mining industry. stock is owned by a number of users, including Aurizon (formerly Queensland Rail) and CBH (delivered by Unlike the metropolitan areas, there is currently no Watco Rail). guidance to assist with determining appropriate locations and design of service centres along major The safe and efficient transportation of grains by travel routes in the region. Appendix 1A therefore road and rail to port is essential for maximising the identifies an initiative to address this issue. contribution of the agricultural sector to the Wheatbelt economy. This network is currently undergoing rationalisation as a result of the findings of an economic review of grain transport from bin to port prepared for the Strategic Grain Network Committee in 2009. The rationalisation process includes investment in the road infrastructure necessary to transport grain to Tier 1 and Tier 2 rail lines and to close Tier 3 rail lines. The Tier 3 lines were closed on 30 June 2014.
The Local Government Grants Commission allocated $25 million in 2013/14 for road projects in the Wheatbelt. A number of local governments have expressed concern that the closure of the Tier 3 lines will result in increased haulage of grain by road which will substantially increase their contribution to road maintenance costs. There are also likely to be
31 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.10.2 Aviation 4.10.3 Passenger transport The Wheatbelt region is serviced by more than 54 Three passenger rail services operate in the Wheatbelt: airports and airstrips. They are used for a variety of tasks, the AvonLink between Northam and Midland (14 trips including firefighting Royal Flying Doctor services, per week); the MerredinLink between Merredin and aviation training and recreational aviation such as East Perth (a weekly return trip); and the Prospector leisure flights, skydiving, gliding, and ballooning. Major between Kalgoorlie and East Perth (every day). In aviation facilities are shown on Map 5. addition TransWA and Greyhound operate regular bus services to smaller towns in the Wheatbelt. East of the Darling Scarp, the Wheatbelt is characterised by favourable climatic conditions and geography that Given the high proportion of older people living in the is suited to the development of the aviation sector, in Wheatbelt, improvements in the reach and frequency particular aviation training. Aviation training already of passenger transport services would be of benefit. occurs at facilities in the Cunderdin, Wyalkatchem, In particular, access to passenger transport between Northam, Narrogin, Gingin and Merredin shires. smaller centres and those towns where health and aged-care services are offered would facilitate aging-in- A State Aviation Strategy is currently in preparation place outcomes. and recognises that there is significant unmet demand for pilot and pilot instructor training particularly from countries within the Asia Pacific region. Training in the Perth metropolitan area and in the north of the State is constrained due to commercial and military activity. The Wheatbelt is ideally suited to establish and expand aviation training facilities including the establishment of an instrument landing system (ILS) as well as the establishment of niche businesses such as agri- spraying and aircraft maintenance.
At a regional level, the Shire of Dandaragan is considering potential options for providing a regional Airport in the Jurien Bay area.
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
32 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.11 Physical infrastructure water efficiency measures, water recycling, the use of rainwater tanks and utilisation of storm water Ensuring sufficient water, power, wastewater and but upgrades to water supply infrastructure may be telecommunication services to support forecast required in some areas. population growth throughout the Wheatbelt and Water required to service increased residential demand to attract new economic activity is essential for the east of the Darling Scarp will generally be sourced development of the region. With over 100 settlements, through the integrated Goldfields and Agricultural the Wheatbelt is characterised by dispersed service Water Supply Scheme and Great Southern Towns provision which gives rise to unique challenges of Water Supply Scheme. Groundwater sources can maintenance and upgrading. In order to provide accommodate both townsite and horticulture growth essential services to the region, use of ‘fit-for-purpose’ in the shires of Gingin and Dandaragan and these and ‘stand alone’ services will be required. An sources also remain part of the source portfolio to initiative is included in Appendix 1A to consider the supply the Integrated Water Supply Scheme for circumstances where these types of facilities may be the Perth region. These areas are proclaimed under suitable. legislation as Public Drinking Water Source Protection Areas to ensure that the limited supplies of fresh water 4.11.1 Water supply for drinking supply are protected for current use and future growth. The availability and provision of water to support population growth and economic development is a The potential to tap into saline water supplies in the key planning consideration for the Wheatbelt region. Wheatbelt for agricultural and non-potable use has been the subject of research and pilot projects for The majority of reticulated water in the Wheatbelt a considerable period of time. The relative cost of is supplied by the Water Corporation through the desalination and the management of waste products Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme and is currently a significant barrier to its use, however with the Great Southern Towns Water Supply Scheme. Some advances in technology this could become a viable areas, including the communities of Dandaragan, supply in the future. Jurien Bay, Moora, and Gingin have separate water supply schemes, also delivered by the Water Farmers and small townsites not on scheme water use Corporation. surface dams and granite rock catchments for watering stock and for local drinking water supplies. The Approximately 60 per cent of water delivered by Government’s Farm Water and Rural Community grant Water Corporation to the Wheatbelt is consumed scheme targets dryland agricultural regions of the State in towns and 38 per cent is used on-farm. Water is which receives less than 600 millimetres of annual predominantly used for residential purposes, with local average rainfall and are without access to a reticulated government, industry and commercial users utilising water service. As shown on Map 3¸ based on the rainfall the balance. Dams are commonplace throughout patterns of the region, most of the Wheatbelt would the region and are primarily used for the watering of qualify as a ‘dryland agricultural region’. The objective of stock and gardens. During periods of drought there is the program is to increase self-sufficiency and optimise significant reliance on scheme water by the livestock the efficient use of all available non-potable water industry. supplies. This is achieved through improved water resource planning and the provision of rebates and Water demand is expected to increase as a result grants to develop both on and off farm water supplies. of peri-urban residential and rural living growth, industrial expansion and horticultural and agri- industry development. The rise in residential water demand is expected to be greatest in the Avon Arc and coastal shires reflective of population growth. Some of the additional demand can be met through
33 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
4.11.2 Wastewater 4.11.3 Electricity The Water Corporation is responsible for the treatment The Wheatbelt is supplied with energy by Western and disposal of wastewater in most Wheatbelt Power’s South West Interconnected System and towns. A small number of local governments operate serviced by the North and East Country load areas. The wastewater systems including the Shires of Brookton, East Country load area covers the eastern Wheatbelt Dalwallinu, Dowerin, Dumbleyung, Goomalling, region. Growth in power demand was slow prior to Koorda, Lake Grace, Moora, Victoria Plains, Wickepin 2007 and then experienced a significant increase due and Yilgarn. However, the management of these to mining and resource development in the area. systems imposes cost implications and management responsibilities that are outside the core business of The North Country load area services the northern local government. area of the Wheatbelt, covering the coastal areas to 150 kilometres inland. The North Country network was In towns that are experiencing population growth, designed to supply small distributed loads and as such, such as Northam, the waste water treatment plants infrastructure limitations have resulted in insufficient are facing capacity constraints and the need for new capacity for large industrial customers to connect. To investment in wastewater. The Water Corporation has address the capacity limitations, Western Power has programs in place to cater for this growth. planned the Mid-West Energy Project. The project will create greater network capacity and support industry Some local governments have expressed concern and mining growth along the line. For the Wheatbelt, that limiting the intensity of development based on this project may facilitate new power generation the availability of reticulated sewerage is an obstacle projects such as wind farms planned for the coastal to growth. The Department of Health’s draft Country area. Sewerage Policy, limits density in areas that cannot be serviced by reticulated sewerage networks. The The geographic reach of the South West cost of extending a sewer and connecting to existing Interconnected System is vast, and supply can be sewerage treatment works is often cost prohibitive variable in the extremes of the network. The large given the relatively low cost of residential land in much number of aged wooden power poles also creates of the Wheatbelt. ongoing management issues for suppliers, and replacement and maintenance programs are unable to Many towns in the Wheatbelt operate on septic deal with all of them. systems. Sometimes topography and shallow soils do not allow effective operation of leach drains, which The Wheatbelt offers an abundant source of renewable creates localised public health risks. A Septic Tank energy. The climatic and geographic conditions of Effluent Disposal system is being developed in Hyden the Wheatbelt are conducive to alternative energy to address these types of issues. It is being funded by generation such as wind, solar, geothermal and the Government’s Infill Sewerage Program, but is still biomass generation. Renewable energy offers the a very costly model that is unlikely to be available to capacity to reduce reliance on centrally distributed other small settlements. energy. A number of wind farms already exist, for example the Collgar Wind Farm near Merredin Maximising the use of existing sewer infrastructure by (the largest single stage wind-farm in the southern encouraging higher density development in sewered hemisphere) and Emu Downs near Cervantes, and locations could assist in overcoming some of the there is potential to establish other alternative energy constraints. However, with changing technology, it is initiatives particularly in the coastal areas where energy likely that the use of ‘fit-for-purpose’ infrastructure will demand is increasing. be employed to provide solutions for small settlements where soil conditions are favourable. While the Wheatbelt offers an abundant source of renewable energy, the South West Interconnected There may also be opportunities for expanded local System has limited capacity to receive renewable government and private sector involvement in energy. As such, renewable energy projects are likely sewerage treatment systems, including the possibility of smaller systems to service individual developments.
34 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
to be most required in ‘end of grid’ or for areas outside In addition to servicing their own community needs, of the System. With opportunities to feed into the the there is potential for Wheatbelt local governments System now limited, there remains an opportunity for to establish facilities that accept and manage waste localised energy generation. from the Metropolitan area or to develop specialist waste treatment operations that service a much wider geographic area. The Class II landfill and gas collection 4.11.4 Gas plant planned for in the Shire of Gingin is an example The Dampier to Bunbury Natural Gas Pipeline traverses of such an enterprise. There are also current proposals the western part of the Wheatbelt but there is no for landfill facilities in the shires of York and Toodyay. access to the pipeline within the Wheatbelt. To achieve The planning arrangements for regional waste regional access, sufficient demand would need to be management varies between local governments. demonstrated by a large foundation customer. Generally, the WAPC favours the identification and Use of gas for energy generation has previously been zoning of sites through a scheme amendment process, explored at the Avon Industrial Park. The proposal was as this requires a local government to agree to initiate not viable at the time given difficulties in distributing a scheme amendment in the first instance, early the proposed intake of power westwards and lack of referral to the Environmental Protection Authority, agreement on a unit purchasing price. opportunities for public submissions and the ability to establish special conditions for the sites prior to Possible options for delivery of gas may include town development. Subject to environmental and land use reticulation from large ‘bullets’, delivered by road or rail suitability, sites adjacent to the major transport routes and the potential for an extension of supply from Perth. of the Great Eastern Highway, Great Northern Highway and Brand Highway are considered most suitable for regional landfill. 4.11.5 Waste management The State Planning Strategy identifies waste disposal, 4.11.6 Telecommunications treatment and recycling facilities as an essential infrastructure item related to Western Australia’s Telecommunications infrastructure is essential to growth. The Strategy identifies that a network of underpin the region’s economic opportunities and strategically located waste management facilities and optimise service delivery, particularly access to infrastructure sites are required to cater for this growth. broadband internet services.
Similarly, the Western Australian Waste Strategy’s The National Broadband Network can enable improved (Waste Authority, 2012) vision is to reduce the access to information and services for some Wheatbelt proportion of waste disposed to landfill and a key residents. It may also provide opportunities for the strategic objective is to initiate and maintain long term establishment of new businesses such as software planning for waste and recycling processing and to development, e-business, e-health and e-education ensure access to suitably located land with buffers and call centres. sufficient to cater for the State’s waste management needs. The Waste Authority is supporting regional In the nationwide switch to digital television, the groups of local governments in the implementation of VAST (Viewer Access Satellite Television) direct-to- their strategic waste management plans through the home service will provide access to free-to-air satellite Regional Funding Program. television services across the Wheatbelt. The costs associated with shires installing VAST rebroadcasting Local governments in the Wheatbelt are working systems or individual households or businesses together (e.g. RoeRoc) to develop and implement purchasing additional equipment to attain coverage best practice approaches to meet localised waste may be prohibitive, as existing Commonwealth management needs. The focus is on avoidance, re-use, Government support is scheduled to cease, which may recycling, recovery and disposal. discourage living and doing business in the Wheatbelt.
35 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
The National Broadband Network and digital television 4.12 Planning approach for present increased opportunities for the Wheatbelt. However, future planning and investment to soften the Vibrant Economy effects of ongoing service and maintenance costs of In its decision-making, the Western Australian Planning infrastructure is required. Commission will aim to: The delivery of telecommunications and internet 1) Facilitate project-ready commercial and industrial services in the Wheatbelt has been supported by the land supply to support growth across the region now completed Regional Mobile Communications and respond to State demand; Project that improved highway and town-to-town coverage through the delivery of terrestrial mobile, 2) Promote rural-zoned land as highly flexible voice and high speed wireless data. Sixteen projects areas that can accommodate a wide variety of in the Wheatbelt have been implemented including enterprises; Arthur River North, Ballidu, Bencubbin, Breton 3) Protect State strategic agricultural land and ensure Bay (Gingin), Clackline, Flint (Beverley), Kondinin, strategic water allocations; Koorda, Miling, Mukinbudin, Narembeen, North Gingin, Wickepin East, Wongonderrah (Dandaragan), 4) Support development of the energy sector to meet Woodridge (Gingin), and Woottatting (Northam). The regional and State energy needs; State Government’s Regional Telecommunications 5) Advocate for investment to consolidate and Project represents the next step in improving mobile maintain existing transport infrastructure; telecommunication coverage in regional areas. Addressing improvements in the service provision of 6) Plan for State strategic road and rail links that link telecommunication sites continues to be a critical issue the region to markets; for the Wheatbelt. 7) Promote and support the movement of major freight tasks sustainably and efficiently on rail to The region has the capacity to capitalise on alleviate road congestion and user conflict; opportunities offered by improved telecommunication services to the region. New technology will allow 8) Advocate for provision of broadband higher rates of mobility, greater usage of the internet telecommunications infrastructure throughout the for business and personal use including for social region; networking and a narrowing of the current rural/city 9) Support development of the aviation sector; and technology divide. 10) Support the growth of population driven service The priority is to maximise access to the new industries. telecommunication technologies across the Wheatbelt. 11) Support early planning of water supplies for new urban and rural living, agriculture and horticulture 4.11.7 Other regional facilities and/ and industry. or infrastructure Given the Wheatbelt’s proximity to metropolitan Perth, it is likely the region will be considered for large infrastructure facilities, if suitable sites cannot be found in Perth. There may be future requirements for facilities such as power generation, windfarms, prisons, cemeteries, landfills and airports.
The use of standard definitions, permissibility and guiding information in local planning instruments would achieve a consistent and co-ordinated approach to this issue.
36 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
5 Valued Natural Amenity
5.1 Objective 5.2 Overview of Wheatbelt environment Valued Natural Amenity objective The Wheatbelt’s natural environment provides the basis for its thriving agricultural industry and developing Environmental and landscape values that tourism sector. It is also a key attractor for people support the social, cultural and economic seeking a rural lifestyle. development of the region, and are managed for current and future generations. The majority of the Wheatbelt’s natural environment has been extensively altered through clearing of native vegetation for broad-acre agriculture. Consequently, the region is experiencing serious land and water management issues, including rising groundwater levels, (and in some cases declining groundwater levels), salinity, eutrophication of waterways, and loss of biodiversity.
Key challenges for the region include improving the management of significant natural areas and water resources, creating corridors/linkages between isolated vegetation remnants, re-establishing native vegetation, controlling water flow to combat salinity, and strategic planning of new residential areas to minimise bushfire risk.
The region’s diverse natural environment stretches from the species-rich kwongan heathlands along the coast north of Perth, over the forests and woodlands fringing the Perth to Bunbury area, across the expansive broad-acre agricultural land, and to the Great Western Woodlands bordering the Goldfields- Esperance region. Map 6 shows the broad landscape units of the Wheatbelt − as Coastal, Hills, Wheatbelt and Woodlands. There are also several significant rivers in the region, including the iconic Avon River, as well as the Moore, Hill and Mortlock rivers.
The Wheatbelt climate is characterised by wet winters and dry summers. Annual rainfall ranges from approximately 300 millimetres in the east to 750 millimetres in the west. Intense rainfall events have occasionally caused river flooding most notably in the towns of Moora, York, Northam, Toodyay and Beverley.
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KIMBERLEY
PILBARA
GASCOYNE MID WEST
GOLDFIELDS- ESPERANCE WHEATBELT PERTH F PEEL
to Geraldton SOUTH approx.F 110 km WEST GREAT SOUTHERN
to Meekatharra approx. 400 km Index to map area
B Y R WA A H N G Lake HI Yarra Yarra D Moore
! Dalwallinu Jurien Bay ! Hill River Moore River NORTHERN Cervantes ! West Midlands WOODLANDS ! Moora COASTAL Koorda !
T Lake A ! Wongan Hills !Mukinbudin E Wallambin Lake ! Deborah River R G West Lancelin ! H I G Moore H W ! Wyalkatchem Southern to Kalgoorlie A ! Yilgarn Y ! Cross approx. 100 km ! Dowerin F ! WHEATBELT Gingin ! Goomalling ERN HIGHWAY EAST Bindoon AT Avon Merredin ! GRE ! Toodyay ! ! Northam Tammin Marvel Loch ! ! ! ! Muchea ! Cunderdin Kellerberrin Indian Ocean Wundowie ! Bakers Hill ! ! Bruce Rock ! York Perth ! xn ! Quairading ! Narembeen Fremantle ! Beverley xn Avon Y A Corrigin W ! H A L ! G B I A Brookton River H N Kondinin Y Pingelly ! Mandurah ! ! ! HILLS Kulin ! Lockhart ! Wickepin Cuballing ! ! H ! IG N H R W ! E AY T Narrogin S ! E Williams W River Williams ! Lake Grace River Wagin Dumbleyung Bunbury xn ! ! ! ! Lake
Collie
H Magenta to Esperance
T approx. 220 km
U approx. 165 km O Arthur F
! S !
Dunsborough ! F to Albany Ravensthorpe Busselton
Bremer river Legend Pallinup river Perup river Gordon river N Warren river Tone river Young river Salt creek Barlee brook 0 20 40 60 80 river Donnelly Landscape units Infrastructure
kilometres Kent river FranklandCoastal river xn Port
Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the Shannon river Hills Highway Western Australian Planning Commission Deep river Gardner river Hay river Copyright © February 2015 Kalgan river ! \\Nts-per\magsprojects\Wheatbelt\ Wheatbelt Main road WheatbeltPlanningInfrastructureFramework2012\ Fig10_WheatbeltLandscapeUnits_A4.mxd Woodlands Administration Base information supplied by the Western Australian Land Information Authority, LI 646-2014-3 Natural resource management Local government boundary
Natural resource management sub-regions Planning region boundary
WheatbeltMap 6: Wheatbelt landscape landscape units units Map 10
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The issues associated with climate change and 5.3.2 Coastal environments variability in the Wheatbelt include a possible decline in agricultural production, and biodiversity, more frequent The region’s coast provides for environmental extreme weather events resulting in flooding, drought, processes, tourism, recreation and commercial fishing bushfires and a shortage of potable water particularly opportunities. Examples of coastal landforms that are where there is a sole reliance on rain water capture and typical of the region include offshore limestone reefs, storage. islands and stacks; tombolos (sand spits that connect islands to the mainland) and other sandy promontories The agricultural sector has and continues to adapt (including salients and cuspate forelands); and dune to variability in climate patterns through changes systems. in production techniques, alternate crop varieties, investment in new crops that generate credits in Considerable population growth in the Wheatbelt is accordance with the Carbon Farming Initiative and expected to occur within the coastal areas. The region’s research. coastal areas are under pressure, which will increase with population rise. They are also potentially at risk of Local governments are also responsive to climate coastal instability and susceptibility to environmental variability. Towns that have the potential to be affected change such as rising sea level. by flood events have processes in place to manage land use change and minimise the impacts of future A recent study into the geology, geomorphology and events particularly on residential land. vulnerability of the coastal portions of the Wheatbelt (WAPC, 2012) assessed the risk of environmental change along the coast. This study highlighted 5.3 Landscape values the need to properly plan for long-term predicted shoreline movement and other impacts of climate variability, such as storm surge. 5.3.1 Landscape Significant to the future of the region’s coastal areas is Landscape is integral to community perception of the Indian Ocean Drive. As well as providing a springboard region’s identity, and the Wheatbelt has a variety of to a range of destinations, including the Jurien Bay compelling landscapes − including its pristine coastal Marine Park, the road also offers magnificent views areas, the Darling Scarp, fields of canola, the Avon of the Western Australian coast, and untouched Valley, granite outcrops or sometimes its clear blue hinterlands, most of which is held in conservation skies. One of the more unusual landscape features of estate. the region is the mobile sand dunes found adjacent to Indian Ocean Drive. The shires of Dandaragan and Gingin are carrying out a Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Besides their community value, the landscape assets Planning Study. An initiative is included in Appendix 1A of the Wheatbelt define key tourism opportunities to identify the planning responses that may be needed for the region. For example, the Pinnacles and Wave in response to the study’s findings. The preparation Rock represent identifiable landscape features and the of an information sheet aimed at local governments coastal landscape qualities of Lancelin, Cervantes and explaining coastal planning roles and responsibilities is Jurien Bay contribute to their popularity for tourism also included. and settlement.
There is a need to manage the Wheatbelt’s visual landscapes, and the ways in which they are experienced, to protect their valued characteristics. This includes preservation, recognition and promotion of regionally important views through the land use planning system. An initiative to develop and implement a program to identify the region’s valued landscapes and the strategic viewpoints and travel routes associated with them is included in Appendix 1A.
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5.4 Biodiversity of a range of datasets including rare and threatened communities, wetlands mapping, and conservation The Wheatbelt region is part of the Southwest Australia estate. Priorities have been established based on Eco-region – an internationally recognised biodiversity whether a vegetation complex has less than 10 per ‘hotspot’ with a high level of species diversity under cent of its original extent (highest conservation value), threat from human disturbance. The central and between 10-30 per cent (high conservation value) eastern Wheatbelt and the area around Mount and between 30-40 per cent (At risk of becoming Lesueur are also recognised as biodiversity hotspots threatened). Remnant vegetation over 20 hectares in at a national level. The Wheatbelt also contains many size and containing threatened, priority or declared important environmental assets, including nationally flora or fauna is categorised as requiring further significant wetlands, rare flora and threatened fauna, investigation. Other remnant vegetation is categorised including the Western Swamp Tortoise, Carnaby’s as potentially having local significance. Cockatoo and Graceful Sun Moth. Regional conservation priorities are shown on Map 7. There has been extensive biodiversity loss in the Generally the Coastal, Hills and Woodlands landscape Wheatbelt from the historical clearing of native units have a reasonably adequate coverage of vegetation for agriculture. Consequently, the Wheatbelt conservation estate, and settlement patters such as has a higher proportion of threatened species and to reduce impact on vegetation. As many planning communities than other parts of Western Australia. proposals tend to deal with conservation values on a Biodiversity loss has been further impacted by land site-specific basis, the purpose of Map 7 is to provide fragmentation, dry land salinity, altered hydrology, regional context to aid decision-making, particularly grazing, introduced plants and animals, dieback, in the preparation of local planning strategies and inappropriate fire regimes, and climate variability. schemes.
Areas of native vegetation, wetlands and waterways Confirmation of the priorities needs to occur at a provide important connectivity between habitats local level taking into account land required for across the region. Regionally significant natural areas development, basic raw materials and other purposes. occur in Gingin, Dandaragan and the Great Western Woodlands. The Dryandra Woodlands north of Narrogin are also regionally significant. While substantial parts of these areas are held as Conservation Estate, many other biodiversity assets are located on private property and in road reserves. Linking all these assets regardless of ownership is important for maintaining connectivity between natural areas.
Gondwana Link and the Great Western Woodlands initiatives are significant conservation collaborations operating within the southern and eastern portions of the Wheatbelt region respectively. The Roadside Conservation Committee also administers an important program of support to local governments for the survey and protection of native vegetation within road reserves across the region. These and other future initiatives will contribute to maintaining connectivity and protecting biodiversity in the Wheatbelt.
In considering the issue of biodiversity in context of the Wheatbelt’s four landscape units (Coastal, Hills, Wheatbelt and Woodlands), an assessment of regional conservation priorities has been undertaken. The analysis is based on the combination and analysis
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to Geraldton F approx.F 110 km
KIMBERLEY to Meekatharra approx. 400 km
PILBARA
GASCOYNE AY MID WEST HW IG Lake B H R Moore GOLDFIELDS- A Shire of Yilgarn N ESPERANCE D WHEATBELT PERTH Shire of Dalwallinu PEEL ! SOUTH Jurien Bay ill WEST GREAT SOUTHERN ! H Dalwallinu
Index to map area R Shire of ive Shire of Woodlands r Moora NORTHERN Mount Marshall Cervantes ! N 0 10 20 30 40 Shire of Shire of ! Moora Shire of Koorda kilometres Dandaragan Wongan-Ballidu Lake
Coastal H Shire of Deborah West Produced by GeoSpatial Planning Support, IG H Mukinbudin Department of Planning WA, on behalf of the W A Western Australian Planning Commission Y ! Copyright © February 2015 Koorda Guraga Lake ! Wongan Hills _^ T ! A ! \\Nts-per\magsprojects\Wheatbelt\ E R Shire of WheatbeltPlanningInfrastructureFramework2012\ Moore G Mukinbudin River Victoria Plains Shire of Shire of Fig11_RegionalConservationPriorities_A3.mxd Lancelin ! Dowerin Wallambin Shire of Westonia Base information supplied by the _^ Lake Trayning Western Australian Land Information Authority, Karakin Lakes _^ Wannamal Lake System Wyalkatchem Shire of LI 646-2014-3 Shire of Shire of ! Nungarin F Goomalling ! to Kalgoorlie Gingin Dowerin Water courses and hydrographic catchments Southern Cross ! approx. 100 km supplied by Department of Water Shire of ! Wyalkatchem HIGHWAY Managed lands and water supplied by Guilderton ! Gingin ! Shire of Goomalling Department of Parks and Wildlife ! Bindoon Toodyay _^ Chittering Needonga _^ Yorkrakine Rock Pools Wheatbelt Local Natural Area Prioritisation RN ! Lakes Shire of Shire Shire of STE ! ! supplied by Western Australian Local Government _^ EA Association (WALGA) - Perth Biodiversity Project Chandala Swamp Cunderdin of Kellerberrin Marvel Loch ! Shire of Tammin Merredin ! Toodyay Northam GRE AT Tammin ! Legend Indian Ocean Muchea ! ! ! Shire of Cunderdin Kellerberrin Merredin Important wetlands Northam ! ^ (Directory of Important ! Bakers Hill Wheatbelt _ Wetlands in Australia) Wundowie Shire of Bruce Rock Local natural area with York ! York ! some level of protection Perth GREAT ! Quairading ! Regional conservation priorities ! Shire of Shire of ! Fremantle n| Beverley Bruce Rock ! Narembeen Highest conservation value - remnant vegetation complex fr ! Shire of Canning Shire of Narembeen with less than 10% of original extent and/or other S O Quairading environmental asset U Beverley T n| H Avon E Y R High conservation value - remnant vegetation complex with A River N Yenyening W 10-30% of original extent and/or other environmental asset H G Lakes Corrigin I Hills ! H ! High priority for further investigation - remnant vegetation A Shire of Brookton Shire of Kondinin L B Brookton that is greater than 20 ha in size and has a record of a rare A N Shire of Corrigin or declared priority fauna Y Shire of River Kondinin ! Mandurah! ! Pingelly At risk of becomi ng threatened - vegetation complex Pingelly with rarity between 30-40% Shire of River Yealering Lakes System Wandering _^ Locally significant - remnant vegetation not meeting Shire of Cuballing ! Shire of Kulin prioritisation criteria Wickepin Hotham ! Infrastructure ! Cuballing Wickepin H Shire of Shire of IG Williams HW Kulin n| Port AY !
N Narrogin Toolibin Lake R River _^ Shire of Lake Grace E Highway T ! Shire of Narrogin S Williams
E
W Williams Lake Grace Main road ! Shire _^ Lake Grace System Administration River of Wagin Shire of Dumbleyung Planning region boundary n|! ! ! Bunbury ! Wagin _^ Dumbleyung Local government boundary Collie Collie Lake Arthur Dumbleyung Lake approx. 165km Magenta River
Other H
to Albany I
Shire of G H
Landscape character unit West Arthur W
Dunsborough Ravensthorpe to Esperance
A
H approx. 220 km Y
! F ! T
U
! F
O Major river S Busselton Regional conservation priorities Map 7: Regional conservation prioritiesMap 11
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5.5 Sustainable use of seek to manage risks to wetlands and waterways of increased water abstraction (due to urban and rural resources living development, agriculture and new horticulture projects and other industry growth), to inform licensing 5.5.1 Water resources and plan for climate change. A Jurien Groundwater area groundwater allocation plan has been prepared There is a great diversity of water resources including and one for Gingin groundwater area is anticipated for fresh and saline wetlands, salt lakes, waterways and release in December 2014. groundwater systems in the Wheatbelt. The sustainable management of these resources is important for Future reviews of the water allocation plans will agriculture, settlements and water-dependent be informed by other investigations and planning. ecosystems, and is fundamental to the future of the These include the Commonwealth funded Mid region. West Groundwater Dependant Ecosystems project (which identified significant groundwater dependent ecosystems in parts of the Wheatbelt and groundwater 5.5.2 Groundwater investigations in the north Gingin area (to assess water availability and its potential use for horticultural The zone of ancient drainage, located east of the expansion and general agricultural use). Meckering Line has extensive regional aquifers that are generally saline and not suitable for irrigated Other areas of the Wheatbelt are unlikely to have agriculture or potable use. Fresh water in this area groundwater allocation plans developed for them as is only found in superficial sediments, granite rock the demand for water is localised and low, and the fractures and hillside seeps. Low salinity groundwater potential risks to wetlands and waterways is limited. resources are thought to be limited to a narrow strip Licence applications will be considered on a case by between the Meckering Line and the Darling Scarp case basis. The coastal areas of the Wheatbelt fall within Gingin and Jurien Groundwater areas of the Northern Perth basin. Agricultural and horticultural production, public water supply and mining are the major water uses in these groundwater areas.
Across the Region there are large volumes of groundwater available for development (more than 130 000 ML/year), mostly from the Jurien Groundwater area. The water resources across the Gingin groundwater area are largely allocated. Actual volumes available for site specific abstraction from the Northern Perth basin vary depending on localised hydrogeology and water quality.
In areas where no further water is available for development, further demand can only be met by increasing water use efficiency; by water entitlement transactions (trading, transfer or leasing); or by developing other sources. For example, water trading is under consideration to service future development including the proposed Muchea Employment Node.
There is increasing competition for access to good quality fresh water in the Gingin groundwater area and Jurien Groundwater area. The Department of Water prepares groundwater allocation plans that
42 Western Australian Planning Commission Part A: Regional Strategic Planning Wheatbelt Regional Planning and Infrastructure Framework
5.5.3 Surface water Rural townsite expansion, rural residential development, and agriculture have the potential to Surface water use in the Wheatbelt is very low. Most impact on water resources. These forms of land use rivers are saline and all are seasonal. Some surface and development can increase stormwater run-off, water is pumped from streams in the Gingin Brook pollute wetlands and waterways, increase recreational catchment at the western edge of the region, where pressures, and increase water use. It is therefore the water is generally fresh. Water users pump small important that the appropriate management of water volumes directly from streams during the summer resources and floodplains be integrated into land use months for irrigated agriculture and horticulture. planning. This is particularly a factor along the Avon Flows in the Gingin Brook and other small coastal rivers River, which runs through Beverley, York, Toodyay and have declined over the last 30 years due to a drying Northam – and for the Moore River which impacts the climate, and are now less viable as water sources settlements of Moora and Guilderton. for irrigation. Many water users are more frequently Future water planning, adaptive and integrated experiencing years where there is insufficient water for management and licensing is being informed by them to take their full licensed entitlement during the comprehensive databases and information produced, irrigation period. or being prepared, by Wheatbelt NRM Inc. and the Surface water abstraction in the Wheatbelt region is Department of Water. These include the location and licensed in the Gingin Brook and tributaries, Moore condition of wetlands and high-value river pools in the River and certain tributaries, and Avon River system Avon catchment; groundwater-dependent ecosystems surface water areas, which are proclaimed under in areas where there is growing demand for water the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1911. The Gingin resources; foreshore assessment for the Avon River’s surface water allocation plan (Department of Water, tributaries; and a catchment management plan for the 2011) describes how water is allocated and managed. Mortlock River.
5.5.4 Catchments, waterways and 5.5.5 Land and soil resources wetlands Dryland salinity is an ongoing threat to productivity of agricultural land in Wheatbelt valley floors. It also The majority of the Wheatbelt is within the Avon impacts on biodiversity and infrastructure in the region. River Basin, which extends east of the Darling Scarp With declining rainfall the spread of salinity has abated approximately 500 kilometres. The rest falls into the in many areas but it remains widespread, with five of Moore-Hill Basin to the north and the Blackwood Basin, the ten WA local governments that experience the Murray Basin and Collie River Basin to the south. most salinity located in the Wheatbelt. Management The Wheatbelt contains a number of wetlands that are to contain or adapt to salinity is technically feasible recognised internationally and nationally. Ten wetlands using plant-based and engineering options. Salt- in the Wheatbelt region are listed in the Directory of affected land needs to be managed in a way which Important Wetlands in Australia, as shown on Map 7. minimises on and off-site impacts and enables it to be Toolibin Lake, located in the Shire of Wickepin, is also profitably used, such as through the establishment of included on the Ramsar Convention’s List of Wetlands salt-tolerant pastures. Engineering approaches, such as of International Importance and is a Natural Diversity drains and pumping to discharge saline groundwater, Recovery Catchment. Yenyening Lakes in the Shire of are regulated under the Soil and Land Conservation Act Beverley is also of regional importance. 1945. Large-scale drainage proposals should consider the Department of Water’s Policy Framework for Inland Since European settlement, water quality within the Drainage (2012). catchment has altered, resulting in once fresh or near fresh waterways becoming saline, with subsequent adverse effects on agricultural land and wildlife habitat. This is an ongoing trend and a significant challenge for the Wheatbelt.
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Wind and water erosion are seasonal hazards in the Deep drains are one option that has been increasingly Wheatbelt. Wind erosion has been managed by used to address dryland salinity across the Wheatbelt. reduced livestock numbers since the early 1990s and Given potential negative environmental consequences, extensive adoption of minimum tillage in broadacre the use of deep drainage is regulated and should agriculture. However, climate variability and a drying be considered in the context of catchment water climate will increase wind erosion hazard without management. further improved management practices. Farm forestry can also play a significant role in Water erosion hazard has been improved in the addressing soil and water salinity, and rising Wheatbelt over the past few decades due to declining groundwater levels. winter rains, increased stubble retention and adoption of reduced tillage practices. The greatest hazard is associated with the steeper slopes in the vicinity of 5.5.6 Townsite salinity York, Northam and Toodyay. Water erosion events are The risk of salinity to town sites within the Wheatbelt mainly caused by intense, localised summer storms, is often significant as settlements were historically which appear to be increasing in frequency in the located low in the landscape. The Rural Towns − Liquid eastern wheatbelt and south-eastern coastal areas. Assets program has assisted many communities to Soils that are susceptible to compaction are develop approaches for managing townsite salinity widespread, requiring further investigation to impacts, water management and limiting damage to determine the extent and severity of the hazard. Soil buildings and infrastructure. compaction can be managed by modifying farm Options for reducing the risk of rising saline practices. Water repellence is a widespread problem groundwater in town sites includes limiting scheme on particular soils in medium to high rainfall zones. water use; stormwater harvesting, water recycling, The extent and severity of the issue appears to be repair of leaks from water pipes, pools, dams and increasing with greater cropped areas, early sowing, drains; replacing septic systems with sewer systems; minimum tillage and reduced rainfall at break of season revegetation and protection remnant vegetation. Most of the Wheatbelt region was rated as fair or poor on this issue, with coastal areas rated as very poor (Department of Agriculture and Food WA, 2013).
Dryland salinity threatens the ongoing productivity of the agricultural sector in the region. There is a high risk of ongoing salinity in the eastern and northern-eastern Wheatbelt particularly in areas located in and adjacent to valley floors. Five of the ten Western Australian local governments that experience the most salinity are in the Wheatbelt region.
Salinity management is complex and requires an integrated response at the farm and catchment scale. There is ongoing research to determine the impact of different management strategies on groundwater trends at the catchment level as a basis for improving salinity management.
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5.5.7 Soil acidification Areas of the Wheatbelt contain State-significant BRM resources, including clay in the Muchea-Chittering Parts of the Wheatbelt are affected by soil acidity, and area and limestone on the Gingin coastal areas around Wodjil soils in the eastern and north-eastern Wheatbelt Lancelin and Ledge Point. are naturally acidic. Acidic soils cause losses in crop production and restrict crop choice, with reduced There are known abundant sources of agricultural plant growth leading to increases in erosion and lime in the Shire of Dandaragan and the Shire of nutrient leaching. Soils can also become more acidic Gingin. Given projected strong population growth in with product removal, legume rotations and the use of these shires, it is important to consider the impact of ammonium-based fertilisers. residential and rural living development on the supply of agricultural lime and other BRMs when making More than 14.25 million hectares of Wheatbelt soils are planning decisions. estimated to be acidic or at risk of becoming acidic and restricting production (Department of Agriculture and Map 4 identifies the BRM in a regional context. Food WA, 2009). This is more land than that affected by dryland salinity. Estimates for the Avon River Basin 5.5.10 Bushfire protection indicate that about 93 per cent of surface soils and 83 per cent of subsurface soils have a moderate to high Bushfire protection is a land planning and risk of acidification. development issue in those parts of the Avon Arc and coastal shires where residential and rural living The primary means of addressing soil acidification is settlement is occurring in hilly vegetated areas. The by application of agricultural lime. However, research WAPC’s Planning Guidelines: Planning for Bush Fire suggests that farmers are using less lime than required Protection edition 2 (2010) address bush fire protection to maintain existing acidity levels. at various stages of the planning process. The WAPC has continued to refine its approach to bushfire 5.5.8 Acid sulphate soils management and in December 2013, published Planning Bulletin 111/2013 to clarify matters that have A different issue is that of acid sulphate soils. Acid arisen since the Guidelines were released. sulphate soils may be found in some parts of the Wheatbelt where salinisation has occurred (such as In May 2014, State Planning Policy 3.7: Planning for near Brookton and Beverley) and are also likely to be Bushfire Risk Management and supporting guidelines associated with wetlands in the coastal parts of the were published for public consultation. The draft policy region. Acid sulphate soils are naturally occurring places a strong emphasis on addressing bushfire and are benign in their natural state. However, once issues at the earliest available planning stage. To exposed to the atmosphere they oxidise, producing complement the draft policy, the Minister for Planning sulphuric acid and iron compounds. has also released proposed bushfire regulations for consultation. The Regulations are intended amongst Exposure of acid sulphate soils can have a number of other things to define more clearly what areas are adverse impacts, such as corrosion of infrastructure considered to be bushfire-prone area for the purposes e.g. concrete, steel pipes and bridges, and harm to of building and planning regulation. waterways and wetlands. Bushfire protection measures such as the construction of fire breaks in steep terrain and the removal of 5.5.9 Basic raw materials vegetation from around dwellings can have adverse environmental impacts, such as soil erosion and altered Basic raw materials (BRM), include sand, clay, hard drainage patterns. Conversely, measures designed to rock, limesand, limestone dolomitic lime, gypsum address land degradation issues, such as de-stocking and gravel and are in demand both from within the and revegetation of understorey species, may increase Wheatbelt region and to service the Perth metropolitan bushfire hazard over time. area. BRMs are used in construction, road building and agriculture. Significant deposits of basic raw materials are located on private land.
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5.6 Planning approach for Valued Natural Amenity
In its decision-making, the Western Australian Planning Commission will aim to: 1) Conserve, enhance and manage biodiversity assets to: • maintain and improve environmental and cultural connectivity across the region; and • limit threats to the health of remnant bushland and conservation areas; 2) Identify and manage threats to soil and water quality; 3) Protect and manage the coast for environmental and tourism values. 4) Be reflective of coastal vulnerability and sea level rise predictions. 5) Recognise, protect and promote the valued visual characteristics of the Wheatbelt’s urban, rural and natural landscapes. 6) Guide the identification, protection and management of local environmental assets, and connections between them. 7) Ensure the protection of State strategic Basic Raw Materials from development that could prevent their future use. 8) Consider the impact of bushfire, flooding and other hazards. 9) Ensure that water supplies are available in considering proposals for urban and rural living, agriculture and horticulture and industry.
Image provided by Wheatbelt Development Commission
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List of acronyms and abbreviations
Department of Aboriginal Affairs DAA Department of Agriculture and Food WA DAFWA Department of Communities DoComm Department of Culture and the Arts DCA Department of Education DoE Department of Environmental Regulation DER Department of Health DoH Department of Housing DoHousing Department of Parks and Wildlife DPAW Department of Planning DoP Department of Regional Development & Lands (former agency) RDL Department of Sport and Recreation DSR Department of Training and Workplace Development DTWD Department of Transport DoT Department of Water DoW Community Arts Network WA CANWA Economic Development Australia EDA Great Western Woodlands GWW Gigalitre (a billion litres) GL Gingin Groundwater Area GGA Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme GSWSS Great Southern Towns Water Supply Scheme GSTWSS Heritage Council WA HCWA Infrastructure Coordinating Committee ICC Jurien Groundwater Area JGA Local Government LG Main Roads WA MRWA National Broadband Network NBN North Eastern Wheatbelt Regional Organisation of Councils NewROC Non-Government Organisation NGO Public Transport Authority PTA Public Utilities Office PUO Regional Development Australia –Wheatbelt RDAW Regional Mobile Communications Project RMCP Roe Regional Organisation of Councils RoeROC South West Aboriginal Land and Sea Council SWALSC South West Interconnected System SWIS State Planning Strategy SPS Tourism WA TWA
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Viewer Access Satellite Television VAST WA Country Health Service WACHS WA Local Government Association WALGA Wheatbelt Development Commission WDC Wheatbelt Natural Resource Management WNRM Western Australian Planning Commission WAPC
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References
Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2011, Census of Population and Households 2011, online databases. Accessed from: www.abs.wa.gov.au Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics, 2008, Climate Change: Opportunities and challenges in Australian Agriculture. Proceedings of Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Natural resources Annual Symposium, 13 June 2008, University of Sydney. CBH website, 2010. Accessed from: https://www.cbh.com.au/document-centre/annual-reports/2009.aspx. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2009, Plan to Support Food Industry Development, DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2009, Plan to Support Grains Industry Development, DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2009, Plan to Support Horticulture Industry Development, DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2009, Plan to Support Livestock Industry Development, DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2009, Bulletin 4784 Soil Acidity – A Guide for WA Farmers and Consultants (www.dafwa.wa.gov.au), DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2013, Report Card of Sustainable Natural Resource Use in Agriculture, status and trend in the agricultural areas of the South-West of Western Australia (www.dafwa.wa.gov.au), DAFWA, Western Australia. Department of Agriculture and Food, 2010, National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality and Natural Heritage Trust program 2003-2009 Final Report. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, 2010, The Opportunities and Threats Facing Australian Agriculture (Key Drivers of Change). Accessed from: www.daff.gov.au Department of Conservation and Environment, 1994, Reading the Remote: Landscape Characters of Western Australia, Department of Conservation and Environment, Western Australia. Department of Conservation and Land Management, 2002, A Biodiversity Audit of Western Australia’s 53 Biogeographical Subregions in 2002. Accessed from: http://www.naturebase.net/content/view/960/1397/ Department of Environment and Conservation, 2002, Wedge and Grey Masterplan. Department of the Environment Australia, 2001, A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia, Third Edition, Environment Australia, Canberra. Department of Fisheries, 2014. Price of Rock Lobster, Fisheries Officer, Personal communication, September 2014. Department of Health, 2002, Country Sewerage Policy (draft). Accessed from: http://www.public.health.wa.gov. au/cproot/2662/2/Draft%20Country%20Sewerage%20Policy.pdf Department of Local Government and Regional Development, 2006, Wheatbelt Economic Perspective, Western Australia. Accessed from: www.rdl.wa.gov.au Department of Local Government and Regional Development, 2007, Indicators of Regional Development in Western Australia - Supplementary Report 2007.
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Department of Local Government and Communities, 2014, Schedule of Financial Assistance Grants. Accessed from: http://dlg.wa.gov.au/Content/LG/GrantsCommission/Allocations.aspx Department of Local Government and Regional Development and Wheatbelt Development Commission, 2006, Wheatbelt Economic Perspective, Department of Local Government and Regional Development, Western Australia. Department of Mines and Petroleum, 2013, Western Australian Mineral and Petroleum – Statistical Digest 2011/12, DMP, Western Australia. Accessed from: www.dmp.wa.gov.au Department of Regional Development and Lands, 2011, Statistical Snapshot, Income and Employment, RDL, Western Australia. Accessed from: Department of Transport, 2013, Western Australian State Aviation Strategy – Draft for Public Comment – August 2013, DOT, Western Australia. Department of Water, 2002, Interim Jurien Ground Water Management Strategy, DOW, Western Australia. Fletcher, W.J. and Santoro, K. (eds), 2009, State of the Fisheries Report 2008/09, DOF, Western Australia. Hopper, S.D. and Gioia, P, 2004, The Southwest Australian Floristic Region: Evolution and Conservation of a Global Hot Spot of Biodiversity. Annu. Rev. Ecol. Evol. Syst. 35: 623-650. Main Roads Western Australia & Western Australian Local Government Association, 2013, 2030 Regional Strategies for Significant Local Government Roads – Wheatbelt North, Mains Roads Western Australia & Western Australia Local Government Association, Western Australia. Main Roads Western Australia & Western Australian Local Government Association, 2013, 2030 Regional Strategies for Significant Local Government Roads – Wheatbelt South, Mains Roads Western Australia & Western Australia Local Government Association, Western Australia. Main Roads Western Australia, 2009, New Norcia Bypass, Great Northern Highway Muchea to Wubin project, feasibility and preliminary route selection report SLK 111.20 to 116.20. MMT Consultancy Services, 2009, Wheatbelt Health Planning Initiative - Western Wheatbelt District Community Consultations 2009, Unpublished. O’Connor, M.H., McFarlane, M., MacRae, D. and Lefroy, E.C., 2004, Avon River Basin 2050: four regional scenarios for the next half-century. A report prepared for the partners of the ARB2050 project. CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems, Canberra. Perth Biodiversity Project, 2010, Maps and statistics for the Wheatbelt Land Use Planning Strategy, October 2010. Regional Development Australia Wheatbelt WA & Wheatbelt Development Commission, 2012, Wheatbelt Strategic Framework, WDC, Western Australia. Standing Committee of Environment and Public Affairs (2011) Report 21 – Shack Sites in Western Australia, Western Australia Legislative Council, Western Australia. Tourism Western Australia, 2010, Australia’s Coral Coast Tourism Development Priorities 2010-2015. Tourism Western Australia, 2010, Australia’s Golden Outback Tourism Development Priorities 2010-2015. Water and Rivers Commission, 2000, Moora Flood Management Strategy, Water and Rivers Commission, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, Department for Planning and Infrastructure, Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts & Western Australian Local Government Association, 2008, Better Urban Water Management, WAPC, Western Australia.
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Western Australian Planning Commission, 2007, Visual Landscape Planning in Western Australia: A manual for evaluation, assessment, siting and design. WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2010, Planning Guidelines: Planning for Bush Fire Protection edition 2. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2015, Western Australia Tomorrow - Medium-term Forecasts for Western Australia 2014-2026 and Sub-regions 2016-2026, WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2012, Western Australia Tomorrow – Forecast Summary for Planning Regions, WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2012, Draft State Planning Strategy, WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2012, State Planning Policy 2.5 – Land Use Planning in Rural Areas, WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Planning Commission, 2014, State Planning Policy 3.7 – Planning for Bushfire Risk Management [Draft], WAPC, Western Australia. Western Australian Waste Authority, 2012, Western Australian Waste Strategy: Creating the right environment, Waste Authority, Western Australia. Wheatbelt Aviation Strategy Ministerial Taskforce, 2010, Final Report. Unpublished document. Wheatbelt Development Commission, 2014, Age Friendly Communities in Small Towns. Accessed from: http:// www.wheatbelt.wa.gov.au/news/age-friendly-communities-small-towns/ Wheatbelt Development Commission, 2014, Final Draft Wheatbelt Blueprint – A Vision for a Vibrant Future. Accessed from: http://wheatbelt.wa.gov.au/publications/wheatbelt-blueprint/
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